The renowned star was found dead in his home in Northern California on Monday, the County Sheriff Office said.
Initial reports have speculated that the celebrity’s death was a result of an apparent suicide due to asphyxia, but cause of death is still under investigation.
The sheriff’s department told reporters that its officers and the local fire department responded to 911 call from William’s home at 11.55am local time. Williams was pronounced dead at the scene at 12.02pm. Reports confirm that Williams was last seen alive at the house that he shares with his wife in Tiburon, north of San Francisco, at 10pm on Sunday night.
Williams had entered a Minnesota rehabilitation centre a month ago to help him maintain his sobriety, having struggled with addiction in the past.
His representative has confirmed that the actor was not using drugs or alcohol but had sought out help to fine tune and focus on his sobriety. Publicist, Mara Buxbaum, confirmed that williams had been suffering from severe depression of late.
“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,” she says.
The 63-year-old’s wife, Susan Schneider, released a statement saying: “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.”
Williams is survived by his three children, Zachary Pym Williams, 31, Zelda Rae Williams, 25 and Cody Alan Williams, 23.
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