Podzilla 1985

Monday, August 11, 2014

Robin Williams Dead at 63

My lovely fiancee and I took a week off from the site to celebrate my birthday with a fabulous trip to Saint Louis. I knew I wanted to update the site when I got up this morning, but I was still recovering from all the hard partying and had nothing particular in mind.

And then around six in the evening I got a call from a friend who told me that Robin Williams had died.

Robin Williams.

I have a lot of fond memories of Robin Williams. A lot of people assume I wasn't a big fan of him, and it's true that I wasn't a huge fan of his stand up. I did love him as an actor, and a lot of his performances were top notch. There is no doubt that he is one of the greatest and most beloved actors of our time.

My first Robin Williams movie that I can remember was Mrs. Doubtfire, and it's still one of my favorites. The whole "famous actor dresses as a woman" shtick is so cliche now, but he made it work. Another friend of mine mentioned Death to Smoochy as a great Williams film, and I'm inclined to agree. It was a dark comedy that never got the credit it deserved. Williams also excelled in everything from his creepy roles in Insomnia and One Hour Photo to television hits like The Crazy Ones and Law & Order SVU.

Much like James Garner, there is also a long list of absolute classic films that were driven by Robin Williams.

He was found dead in his home at the age of 63, from what appears to be suicide. I've been to that edge before, where you want to take that leap and end it all, but I've never been able to go through with it. I struggle with depression every day of my life, and although I do a good job of hiding it from the people I care about, it is always there. I have great sympathy for Robin and his family, and wish them all peace in this time of tragedy.

His wife Susan released a statement earlier today, and I'd like to leave you all with her words.

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.”

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