Apparent suicide at 63

Robin Williams has been found dead at his home the age of 63, in an apparent suicide.

He was pronounced dead at his home shortly after midday officials responded to an emergency 911 call around noon local time.

After starting as a stand-up, he shot to fame in Mork & Mindy before enjoying a Hollywood career that included Good Morning Vietnam, Dead Poets Society and Good Will Hunting, which won him an Oscar.

He had been open in the past about his struggles with alcohol and drugs and had recently returned to a rehabilitation centre to ‘fine-tune’ his sobriety.

In a statement, California police said: ‘At this time, the 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.'

According to his publicist, the actor had been suffering from severe depression. A statement said: 'Robin Williams passed away this morning. He has been battling severe depression of late. This is a tragic and sudden loss.'

Williams' wife, Susan Schneider, said she was ‘utterly heartbroken, adding: ‘This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings.

'As he is remembered, it is our hope that the focus will not be on Robin's death but on the countless moments of joy and laughter he gave to millions.'

A forensic examination on Williams's body is expected later today, with toxicology testing to follow.

Among those paying tribute were Steve Martin who tweeted he ‘could not be more stunned by the loss of Robin Williams, mensch, great talent, acting partner, genuine soul’.

Eddie Izzard added: 'From every comedian here at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, we salute him & we say goodbye.'

And Ross Noble said: 'Shocked and saddened by the news of Robin Williams passing.A true master of the art of stand up.'

Williams, who was born in Chicago, was known for the manic energy he brought to stand-up the the early days of the modern American scene, but his performances were often fuelled by cocaine. In a 2012 poll of comedians, he was named the world’s most influential stand-up.

He leaves three children from previous marriages Zachary, 31; Zelda, 25, and Cody, 22.

Watch highlights from his career here.

Published: 12 Aug 2014