Beloved actor-comedian Robin Williams found dead at 63

CTV Vancouver: Robin Williams found dead at 63 A legend in film and comedy is dead in what appears to be a suicide.

Hollywood legend Robin Williams was found dead of an apparent suicide Monday in his California home.

Paramedics were called to Williams’ Tiburon residence at 11:55 a.m. after the beloved actor-comedian was discovered unconscious. He was pronounced dead minutes after they arrived.

Williams was 63.

Coroners from the Marin County Sheriff’s Office suspect Williams died of suicide by asphyxiation, but will be investigating further before releasing a final cause of death.

A forensic examination has been scheduled for Tuesday.

The famous funnyman’s wife, Susan Schneider, issued a statement Monday mourning her loss and requesting privacy on behalf of their family.

“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,” Schneider said.

“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 received as much praise for his dramatic roles as his comedic ones, earning a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his role in Good Will Hunting (1997). He’d previously received Academy Award nominations for Dead Poets Society (1989) and The Fisher King (1991).

He was recently in Vancouver to reprise his role as Teddy Roosevelt in the Night at the Museum series.

Williams was open about his previous struggles with drugs and alcohol in the 1970s and ‘80s. He sought treatment in 2006 when he relapsed and returned to drinking after 20 years. Williams entered rehab in July for a brief stint in order to reconnect with the 12-step program.