Oscar-winning actor and comedian Robin Williams was found dead at age 63 on Monday from an apparent suicide at his home in Northern California, authorities said.
The comedian's appeal stretched across generations and genres, from family fare as the voice of Disney's blue Genie in "Aladdin" to his portrayal of a fatherly therapist in the 1997 drama "Good Will Hunting," for which he earned his sole Oscar.
But many remembered the master of impressions on Monday (11-Aug-2014) for his tender portrayal in "Mrs. Doubtfire", when he played the part of a British nanny whose identity he assumed as a divorced father to be with his children.
Williams had been recently suffering from severe depression, his publicist Mara Buxbaum said in a statement, and the actor had repeatedly talked about his past struggles with alcohol.
The Marin County Sheriff's coroner's division said it suspected Williams committed suicide by asphyxia, but the cause of death is still under investigation and an autopsy will be conducted Tuesday (12-Aug-2014).
Hollywood celebrities and many others who knew him paid tribute to Williams:
His wife Susan Schneider said in 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."
American President Barack Obama, in a statement making reference to the actor's many roles 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 statement: "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."
Comedian Steve Martin said on Twitter: "I could not be more stunned by the loss of Robin Williams, mensch, great talent, acting partner, genuine soul."
Actor Ben Stiller said on Twitter: "I met him when I was 13 and a huge fan and he was so kind and I watched him be kind to every fan I ever saw him with ... And with other actors he was so generous and brilliant. He made everyone feel special and equal around him even though he was the genius."
Comedian Chevy Chase said in a statement: "Robin and I were great friends, suffering from the same little-known disease: depression. I never could have expected this ending to his life, and to ours with him. God bless him and God bless us all for his LIFE! I cannot believe this."
Producer David E. Kelley, who created television show "The Crazy Ones" starring Williams, said in a statement: “The talent was legendary. But equally inspiring, perhaps more so, was his kindness and humanity. Gentle soul who touched us all.”
Officials from Twentieth Century Fox Television, the studio that produced "The Crazy Ones," said in a statement: “Robin Williams was a comedy giant, and although we only knew him personally for a season, he was warm, funny and a true professional."
Actor Neil Patrick Harris said on Twitter: "I am stunned and just reeling from the news of Robin Williams' death. He brought so much joy and heart to millions ... Just, wow."
Actor John Travolta said in a statement: "I've never known a sweeter, brighter, more considerate person than Robin ... Robin's commitment as an artist to lifting our mood and making us happy is compared to none."
Actress Sally Field said in a statement: "I feel stunned and so sad about Robin. I'm sad for the world of comedy. And so very sad for his family. And I'm sad for Robin. He always lit up when he was able to make people laugh, and he made them laugh his whole life long ... tirelessly."
Lucy Mercer, executive artistic director at the Throckmorton Theatre, a small nonprofit center near his home in Marin County, California, where the actor was known to try out new material, said in a statement: “He embodied what it meant to be humble. He doused us in his love and positive glow and never asked for anything in return.”
Actress Minnie Driver said on Twitter: "My Heart's broken. Robin was a beautiful, kind soul. Can't bear that he's gone. So incredibly sorry for his family."
Actor Steve Carell said on Twitter: "Robin Williams made the world a little bit better."
Comedian Ellen DeGeneres said on Twitter: "I can’t believe the news about Robin Williams. He gave so much to so many people. I’m heartbroken."
Actor Kevin Spacey said on Twitter: "Robin Williams made the world laugh & think. I will remember & honor that. A great man, artist and friend. I will miss him beyond measure."
Writer and actress Lena Dunham said on Twitter: "Just shared a moment of silence on the set for Robin Williams, a man who brought so much laughter, joy and healing to so many."
Comedian Margaret Cho said on Twitter: "I AM BEYOND DEVASTATED."
Comedian Jimmy Kimmel said on Twitter: "Robin was as sweet a man as he was funny. If you're sad, please tell someone."
