Actor and comedian Robin Williams has been found dead, his publicist has announced. He was 63.
He was found in his home and the cause of death is believed to be suicide.
"Robin Williams passed away this morning," his publicist said in a statement.
"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."
"This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings," Williams' wife Susan Schneider said.
"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."
William's 25-year-old daughter, Zelda, today tweeted a quote from Antoine De Saint-Exupery's well-known book The Little Prince.
"You - you alone will have the stars as no one else has them ... In one of them I shall be laughing. And so it will be as if all the starts were laughing, when you look at the sky at night ... You - only you - will have stars that can laugh."
At the bottom of the quote she attached a message for her late father: "I love you. I miss you. I'll try to keep looking up."
- READ MORE: Tributes pour in for Williams
- VIDEO: Full interview with Robin Williams
- VIDEO: Jonah Lomu reacts to Williams' death
- READ MORE: A look back at the life of Robin Williams
Investigations into Williams' death are continuing.
"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," says the Marin County Sheriff's Office Coroner Division.
Williams is known for both comedic and dramatic roles in movies including Good Will Hunting, for which he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor and several other awards in 1997.
Other notable film roles include Dead Poets Society, Mrs Doubtfire, Good Morning Vietnam, Jumanji, Aladdin, Night at the Museum, Patch Adams and Flubber.
His career was bookended by TV roles; his breakout role on Mork & Mindy in 1978 and last year's The Crazy Ones.
Williams had an upcoming role in the next Night at the Museum sequel and Mrs Doubtfire 2 was scheduled to hit cinemas next year.
He brought his Weapons of Self Destruction stand-up tour to New Zealand in 2010, donating the proceeds from his Christchurch show to the city's earthquake rebuilding programme. Kate Rodger interviewed him for Campbell Live at the time.
Williams leaves behind his third wife Susan along with children Zachary, Zelda and Cody.
If you or someone you know is experiencing depression contact Lifeline on 0800 543 354 (outside Auckland) or 09 522 2999 (within Auckland) for 24 hour telephone counselling. Alternatively, contact the Suicide Crisis Helpline on 0508 828 865.
3 News
source: newshub archive
