Robin Williams Dead at 63

Breaking:  Several news outlets including Entertainment Weekly are reporting that actor/comedian Robin Williams has passed away.  Although a publicist for the Oscar winning actor/comedian would not confirm suicide as the cause of death, he did release the following statement:

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.

According to Variety, Williams was found dead at his home in Tiburon, CA. The coroner's office has declared the death suicide via asphyxiation.  Robin Williams' wife, Susan Schneider is quoted by Variety as saying:

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.

Robin Williams burst onto the comedy scene in the late 70's playing the lovable space alien, Mork, on the hit comedy "Mork & Mindy."  He went on to have an enormously successful career as both a comedian and serious actor, spanned over 4 decades.   Some of William's roles included starring roles in Good Morning, Vietnam, Awakenings, Dead Poets Society, Good Will Hunting, Mrs. Doubtfire, The Birdcage and many others.

Here is a classic clip of Robin Williams' first appearance on The Tonight Show from October 14, 1981.