Robin Williams

Robin McLaurin Williams (July 21, 1951 – August 11, 2014) was an American actor and comedian. He is renowned for his impressive improvisational skills and the array of idiosyncratic characters he portrayed, making him one of the most cherished comedians of all times. His rich creative talents earned him an Academy Award, two Primetime Emmy Awards, six Golden Globe Awards, five Grammy Awards, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards among others. Williams cemented his acting career in acclaimed dramas like 'Good Will Hunting', 'The Fisher King', 'Dead Poets Society' and 'Good Morning, Vietnam'. He was also a beloved figure in family entertainments flicks such as 'Hook', 'Jumanji', and 'Mrs. Doubtfire', not to mention his unforgettable voice roles in animated films like 'Aladdin' and 'Happy Feet'. He began his career doing stand-up comedy in San Francisco and Los Angeles in the 1970s. He first captured the public eye as an alien named Mork in the TV series Mork & Mindy.

Throughout his life, Williams battled with severe depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and was finally diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease shortly before his death. In 2014, he ended his life in his Paradise Cay home in California, after a long struggle with his mental health. After an autopsy, it was revealed that Williams was suffering from 'diffuse Lewy body dementia'. Despite his personal struggles, Williams' impact on comedy and acting remains substantial. With his electric on-stage energy, in-depth dramatic acting, and caring spirit off-stage, he enriched American film and television while becoming a cherished figure worldwide.