The actor may have taken his own life...
Oscar award-winning actor Robin Williams has died, the Marin County Police Department has confirmed. According to a statement issued by the police department, 63-year-old Williams was found unconscious and not breathing inside his Tiburon, California, home on Monday and was pronounced dead just after noon. While a cause of death has yet to be confirmed, the police department statement noted that it was a possible suicide.
"Sheriff's Office 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," the statement read. "A forensic examination is currently scheduled for August 12, 2014 with subsequent toxicology testing to be conducted."
Robin Williams has died at the age of 63. (Fame FlyNet)
Mara Buxbaum, Williams' publicist, confirmed the actor's death in a statement issued to The Hollywood Reporter. While she did not confirm that it was an act of suicide, she did provide insight into what may have happened.
"Robin Williams passed away this morning," Buxbaum said. "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, who has struggled with drug addiction and alcoholism for many years, checked into the Hazelden Addiction Treatment Center in Minnesota in early July. According to a statement issued by his spokesperson at the time, Williams made the trip to the rehab center to rest and focus on his sobriety.
"After working back-to-back projects, Robin is simply taking the opportunity to fine-tune and focus on his continued commitment, of which he remains extremely proud," his rep said at the time of the actor, who last relapsed in 2006.
According to the police department statement, Williams was last seen alive at his home around 10 p.m. on Sunday night. His wife, Susan Schneider, issued a statement regarding the loss of her husband.
"This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings," she said. "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."
Williams has portrayed many memorable characters over the course of his 42-year career. He was first nominated for an Academy Award for his performance in the 1987 film Good Morning Vietnam. He later won an Oscar for his performance in Good Will Hunting in 1997. Williams' vast film credits include hits such as Mrs. Doubtfire, Aladdin, Hook, Happy Feet and Dead Poets Society.
Williams was filming a sequel to Night at the Museum at the time of his death. He had also reportedly just signed on to revise his role as the cross-dressing nanny character, Mrs. Doubtfire, in a sequel slated to be released next year.
