Robin Williams dead: Beloved actor-comedian found dead in California home, aged 63
Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Updated 12 Aug 2014, 9:30am (Aussie time)
Actor-comedian Robin Williams has been found dead at his home in northern California.
The Marin County sheriff's office said the 63-year-old was found dead this morning (Australian time).
The Oscar-winning actor was known for roles in acclaimed films such as Good Morning Vietnam (1987), Dead Poets Society (1989), Good Will Hunting (1997), Mrs Doubtfire (1993) and Jumanji (1995).
Williams' widow, Susan Schneider released a statement, saying: "This morning, 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. 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."
Born in Chicago in 1951, Williams rose to fame with his role as the alien Mork in the TV series Mork and Mindy.
The actor, who had struggled with depression and addiction, went on to establish a career in both stand-up comedy and film action, and also did voice work, including on Aladdin and Happy Feet.
Nominated for three Academy Awards, he won the best supporting actor Oscar for his performance in Good Will Hunting.
He also received two Emmy Awards, four Golden Globes, two Screen Actors Guild awards and five Grammys.
The actor had described himself as a quiet child who overcame his shyness after becoming involved in drama during high school.
In 1973, Williams became one of only two students accepted into the advanced program at the Julliard School - the other being Christopher Reeve.
After his work on Mork and Mindy in the late 1970s, Williams attracted a wider audience with his stand-up comedy, a consistent thread throughout his career.
Known for his improvisational skills and impersonations, most of his career focused on the silver screen.
His first film was the 1977 comedy Can I Do It 'Till I Need Glasses? His performance in Good Morning Vietnam the next year earned him an Academy Award nomination.
His unique voice brought the genie to life in Aladdin (1992), with Williams going on to voice parts in Fern Gully (1992), Robots (2005) and Happy Feet (2006).
He earned critical acclaim for his roles as an English teacher in Dead Poets Society, and later as a psychologist in Good Will Hunting, alongside Matt Damon and Ben Affleck.
His other films include Hook, What Dreams May Come, and thrillers Insomnia and One Hour Photo.
Williams was married three times, and has three children. He lived with his third wife in San Francisco until his death.