Truly devastating news to bring you this morning, with US police confirming that Robin Williams has died at the age of 63.
The Oscar-winning actor was found at his home, after an apparent suicide. His publicist revealed that he had been “battling severe depression”.
Having made his name in TV and stand-up, before appearing as a comedic actor in the likes of Good Morning Vietnam , Mrs. Doubtfire and Aladdin , Williams would go on to scoop the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in 1998, for his role in Good Will Hunting .
The star had openly spoken of his battles with alcohol and drug addiction in the early ‘80s, and his subsequent relapse in 2006 following years of sobriety. He had been thought to have recovered, before returning to rehab last month.
Barack Obama led the tributes, with the US President saying: “Williams 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 marginalised on our own streets.”
Steven Spielberg described Williams as “a lightning storm of comic genius… he was a pal, and I can’t believe he’s gone.” Meanwhile, Steve Martin said: I could not be more stunned by the loss of Robin Williams, mensch, great talent, acting partner, genuine soul.”
Williams is survived by his wife, Susan Schneider, and three children. The thoughts of all at Total Film are with them at this difficult time.
