I am so saddened to hear the passing of Oscar-winning and beloved actor Robin Williams. I grew up watching all his movies, from Dead Poets Society, Mrs. Doubtfire, Aladdin, Mork & Mindy, to Good Morning, Vietnam.

Williams was found dead on Monday morning from an apparent suicide. He was 63.

His wife, Susan Schneider, released this statement to Dave Itzkoff of the New York Times: 

“This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one if 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 that the focus will not be on Robin’s death but on the countless moments of joy and laughter he gave to millions.”

His longtime personal publicist Mara Buxbaum also released this 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.”

https://twitter.com/SteveMartinToGo/statuses/498971366050107392

My heart goes out to his family.

I leave you with this:

“O Captain! My Captain!”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KI2_bn89cow