Robin Williams, RIP

August 12, 2014

Oscar winner and comedian Robin Williams died this morning at 63. While his publicist wouldn’t confirm that it was a suicide, they did issue this statement. “Robin Williams passed away this morning. He has been battling severe depression of late. This is a tragic and sudden loss. The family respectfully asks for their privacy as they grieve during this very difficult time.” – [EW]

While he was known of late for more family fare, Robin Williams was an anarchic comedian in the ’70s and early ’80s, whose influence shouldn’t be underestimated. Very sad news. Rest in peace, Robin. Nanu nanu.

President Obama issued a statement:

Robin Williams was an airman, a doctor, a genie, a nanny, a president, a professor, a bangarang Peter Pan, and everything in between. But he was one of a kind. He arrived in our lives as an alien – but he ended up touching every element of the human spirit. He made us laugh. He made us cry. He gave his immeasurable talent freely and generously to those who needed it most – from our troops stationed abroad to the marginalized on our own streets. The Obama family offers our condolences to Robin’s family, his friends, and everyone who found their voice and their verse thanks to Robin Williams.

Robin’s most recently released movie, which co-starred Peter Dinklage, is called “The Angriest Man in Brooklyn.”

If you’re dealing with suicidal thoughts, you don’t have to suffer alone. People want to help you. Please reach out to someone. Wikipedia has a list of crisis hotlines around the world.

A few clips, including his classic 1982 HBO special “An Evening With Robin Williams,” below…

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An Evening with Robin Williams