(CNN – August 11, 2014)– Comedic actor Robin Williams died at his Northern California home Monday, law enforcement officials said. Williams was 63.
Coroner investigators suspect “the death to be a suicide due to asphyxia,” according to a statement from the Marin County, California, Sheriff’s office.
“Robin Williams passed away this morning,” his media representative Mara Buxbaum told CNN.
“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.”
Williams married graphic designer Susan Schneider in Napa Valley, California, ceremony in October 2011. Schneider sent a written statement to CNN through the representative.
“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.”
Marin County deputies responded to an emergency call from Williams’ home in unincorporated Tiburon, California, at 11:55 a.m., reporting “a male adult had been located unconscious and not breathing,” the release from the sheriff said.
Williams was pronounced dead at 12:02 p.m., it said.
Williams was last seen alive at his home, where he lives with his wife, at about 10 a.m., the sheriff’s statement said.
“An investigation into the cause, manner and circumstances of the death is currently underway by the Investigations and Coroner Divisions of the Sheriff’s Office,” the sheriff’s statement said.
“Coroner Division suspects the death to be a suicide due to asphyxia, but a comprehensive investigation must be completed before a final determination is made.”
An autopsy is scheduled for Tuesday, the sheriff said.
Williams made at least two trips to rehab for drug treatment, including a visit this summer, and he underwent heart surgery in 2009.
Williams, born in Chicago on July 21, 1951, studied theater at Juilliard School before taking his stand up act to nightclubs. He was cast as Mork, an alien visitor to Earth, for a 1974 episode of television’s “Happy Days.”
The role led to the spin-off show “Mork & Mindy,” which showcased Williams’ usual comic improvisation talents.
He proved his dramatic acting skills in “Good Will Hunting,” a 1997 film that earned him a best supporting actor Oscar.
President Barack Obama on the passing of Robin Williams:
“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. He 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 marginalized on our own streets. 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.”
Williams’ death spurred a flurry of reaction across social media, including several tweets from celebrities:
Very sad, very upset, very glad I did not have to hear about this though Twitter. Probably going to be taking some time off it for a while.
— Mara “Get Rid of the Nazis” Wilson (@MaraWilson) August 11, 2014
https://twitter.com/SteveMartinToGo/status/498971366050107392
What a sad day. Shocking loss of Robin Williams. A brilliant talent and a gentle man. May his memory LLAP
— Leonard Nimoy (@TheRealNimoy) August 12, 2014
A tweet cannot begin to describe the hugeness of Robin Williams heart and soul and talent. This is so sad. #RobinWilliams
— Ben Stiller (@RedHourBen) August 12, 2014
Robin Williams was like no other ..To watch him create on the spot was a privilege to behold..
Robin you are an angel now !!! REST IN PEACE— Henry Winkler (@hwinkler4real) August 11, 2014
My Heart's broken. Robin was a beautiful, kind soul. Can't bear that he's gone. So incredibly sorry for his family.
— Minnie Driver (@driverminnie) August 11, 2014
We mourn the loss of our friend Robin Williams, who always made us laugh and smile. pic.twitter.com/UOY8LTjVRA
— Sesame Street (@sesamestreet) August 11, 2014
I am deeply saddened. He was a lovely man who would keep everyone laughing even if he wasn't feeling good himself. RIP Robin Williams.
— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) August 12, 2014
Robin Williams…that 5 minute chat that evolved into 90 mins ,my sides were aching from laughter. Amazing mind , such a kind man .
RIP— Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) August 12, 2014
We lost Robin…1st witnessed his genius as he created Mork B4 our eyes in 2 hrs on set. A Force. A Sweet Soul. A Brilliant Artist. RIP
— Ron Howard (@RealRonHoward) August 12, 2014
Robin Williams made the world laugh & think. I will remember & honor that. A great man, artist and friend. I will miss him beyond measure.
— Kevin Spacey (@KevinSpacey) August 12, 2014
I can’t believe the news about Robin Williams. He gave so much to so many people. I’m heartbroken.
— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) August 11, 2014
Genie, you're free. pic.twitter.com/WjA9QuuldD
— The Academy (@TheAcademy) August 12, 2014
Thank you, #RobinWilliams. http://t.co/1u2XFcNkff #RIP pic.twitter.com/E0qRiuMwir
— Recording Academy / GRAMMYs (@RecordingAcad) August 12, 2014
RIP @robinwilliams You were one of the very best that ever was. You were one of my heroes. #RobinWilliams
— Joel McHale (@joelmchale) August 11, 2014
So sad so very sad about Robin. My head and heart extend to his family.
— Tim Allen (@ofctimallen) August 11, 2014