Robin Williams Dead At 63

Robin Williams. Photo: Getty

Oscar-winning actor and comedian Robin Williams has died at age 63, according to police in Marin County, Calif.

"Robin Williams passed away this morning. He has been battling severe depression of late," his rep said in a statement.

"This is a tragic and sudden loss. The family respectfully asks for their privacy as they grieve during this very difficult time."

His wife, Susan Schneider, also released a statement: "This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings. I am utterly heartbroken. On behalf of Robin's family, we are asking for privacy during our time of profound grief. As he is remembered, it is our hope the focus will not be on Robin's death, but on the countless moments of joy and laughter he gave to millions.”

"At this time, the Sheriff's Office Coroner Division suspects the death may be a suicide due to asphyxia, but a comprehensive investigation must be completed before a final determination is made," Lt. Keith Boyd, the Marin Country assistant chief deputy coroner, said in a statement.

Robin Williams in the Oscar winning film, Good Will Hunting

The Crazy Ones star checked himself into rehab in early July after battling alcohol and drug addiction throughout his life.

"He was just such a nice man," said an industry source who worked with him in 2013. "He would always say hello and ask if I needed help with anything. He was just lovely. Everyone really loved working with him."

His manager of 35 years also remembered Williams for his kindness and humor.

"Nobody made the world laugh like Robin Williams," David Steinberg told WHO. "My brother, my friend, my soul mate, I will miss you."

Williams, who shot to fame in 1978 in the TV series Mork & Mindy, enjoyed a long career as a comedic and voice actor. He was slated to reprise his role in the sequel for the popular family flick Mrs. Doubtfire.

Sine news of the actor's death broke, friends and colleagues have taken to Twitter to share their shock and sadness:

The full statement from police is below.

On August 11, 2014, at approximately 11:55 a.m, Marin County Communications received a 9-1-1 telephone call reporting a male adult had been located unconscious and not breathing inside his residence in unincorporated Tiburon, CA. The Sheriff’s Office, as well as the Tiburon Fire Department and Southern Marin Fire Protection District were dispatched to the incident with emergency personnel arriving on scene at 12:00 pm. The male subject, pronounced deceased at 12:02 pm has been identified as Robin McLaurin Williams, a 63-year-old resident of unincorporated Tiburon, CA.

An investigation into the cause, manner, and circumstances of the death is currently underway by the Investigations and Coroner Division s of the Sheriff’s Office. Preliminary information developed during the investigation indicates Mr. Williams was last seen alive at his residence, where he resides with his wife, at approximately 10:00 pm on August 10, 2014. Mr. Williams was located this morning shortly before the 9-1-1 call was placed to Marin County Communications. At this time, the Sheriff’s Office Coroner Division suspects the death to be a suicide due to asphyxia, but a comprehensive investigation must be completed before a final determination is made. A forensic examination is currently scheduled for August 12, 2014 with subsequent toxicology testing to be conducted.

If you have concerns about depression, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit beyondblue.org.au.