We are very sad to report that Oscar-winning American actor and comedian Robin Williams has passed away yesterday in what California police are describing as an apparent suicide. He was 63.
Born in Chicago, Illinois in 1951, Williams attended the prestigious Julliard School in the 1970s before gaining his breakthrough with guest role as the alien Mork in Happy Days, which led to the popular spin-off Mork & Mindy. In addition to gaining acclaim for his stand-up work, Williams’ film career began to take off in the 1980s, with roles in Popeye, The World According to Garp, Moscow on the Hudson, Good Morning, Vietnam and Dead Poets Society, the latter two providing him with his first Academy Award nominations.
During the 1990s, Williams continued to mix comedic roles with serious work, appearing in the likes of Awakenings, The Fisher King, Toys, Hook, Aladdin, Mrs. Doubtfire, Jumanji, Jack, The Birdcage, Flubber and Good Will Hunting, which saw him receiving the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. His subsequent films including Patch Adams, What Dreams May Come, Bicentennial Man, Insomnia, One Hour Photo, Night at the Museum, Happy Feet and The Butler. He had recently starred in the sitcom The Crazy Ones, as well as completing work on a number of films, including the Night at the Museum sequel Secret of the Tomb and the comedy Merry Friggin’ Christmas.
Everyone here at Flickering Myth would like to express our sadness at Robin Williams’ passing, and offer our condolensces to his friends and family.
Originally published August 12, 2014. Updated April 12, 2018.
