We're reeling from the report from Huffington Post that actor and comedian Robin Williams was found dead today from an apparent suicide. According to Williams' publicist, the 63-year-old was battling severe depression.
Williams earned his claim to fame with the classic sitcom "Mork and Mindy," which ran from 1978 to 1982. Williams frenetic energy and amazing ability to ad lib made him a household name.
Williams transferred his wit on stage into a very successful movie career, with stellar performances in "Good Morning Vietnam," "The Dead Poets Society," and "Awakenings." He also continued to share his comedic genius in movies such as "Hook," "Aladdin," and "Mrs. Doubtfire."
And as successful as he was, Williams battled some very big demons throughout his life, battling both a cocaine addiction and alcoholism. He also had some serious health issues, as he had surgery in 2009 to replace an aortic valve in his heart.
Williams' battle with depression was not as well-publicized as some of his other issues. In fact, we were extremely surprised to hear this tragic news. It seems to us that the true "great ones" are ultimately overcome by the hardships and trials that make them funny. They look to outside things to chase away their demons, which ultimately become their undoing. The brightest lights are the quickest to burn out.
Rest in peace Robin. There was and never will be anyone else like you. You will be missed, but not forgotten.
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