63-year-old award-winning actor Robin Williams was found dead in an apparent suicide, according to a multiple reports. He was found in his home in Tiburon, northern California, USA Today said. A statement from the Marin County Police said that they suspect that the actor died from asphyxia.
Williams had openly admitted in the past about taking alcohol and using drugs. However, the veteran actor's publicist said the star had been battling depression prior to his death.
The police said that an autopsy would be done on Tuesday, CNN said.
His wife Susan Schneider said in a statement, "I am utterly heartbroken. On behalf of Robin's family, we are asking for privacy during our time of profound grief... I urged the father of three millions fans to remember his genius for creating laughter.
Mrs Williams, who became the actor's third wife when the couple married in 2011, added, "This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings,"
FOX Entertainment, which produced the late star's film "Night at the Museum," issued in a statement, "There really are no words to describe the loss of Robin Williams. He was immensely talented, a cherished member of our community, and part of the Fox family. Our hearts go out to his family, friends and fans. He will be deeply missed."
The whole world, and most of Hollywood, have expressed their sorrow upon hearing the saddest news from the funnyman. Hollywood celebrities like actor Kevin Spacey has led Twitter tributes to to the Hollywood legend, Metro UK reported.
Even President Barack Obama has issued a message regarding the actor's untimely death. Making reference to the actor's many roles, Obama said, "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. ... 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."
Director Steven Spielberg said in a separate message, "Robin was a lightning storm of comic genius and our laughter was the thunder that sustained him. He was a pal, and I can't believe he's gone."
Officials from Twentieth Century Fox Television, the studio that produced Williams's last television show, "The Crazy Ones," commented about the actor's loss, "Robin Williams was a comedy giant, and although we only knew him personally for a season, he was warm, funny and a true professional."
The actor, prior to his departure, had starred in Hollywood hits such as "Jumanji," "Good Will Hunting," "Mrs Doubtfire," "Worlds Best Dad," "Good Morning Vietnam" and "Dead Poets Society" to name a few.
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