As details emerge regarding the death of Robin Williams, his wife of three years, Susan Schneider, has released this statement in the wake of the 63-year-old's passing.

“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.”

His 25-year-old daughter, Zelda, posted this quote from Antoine de Saint-Exupery on twitter

Barack Obama offered his condolences with this heartfelt statement: "Robin Williams was an airman, a doctor, a genie, a nanny, a president, a professor, a bangarang Peter Pan, and everything in between. But he was one of a kind. He arrived in our lives as an alien - but he ended up touching every element of the human spirit. He made us laugh. He made us cry. He gave his immeasurable talent freely and generously to those who needed it most - from our troops stationed abroad to the marginalised on our own streets. The Obama family offers our condolences to Robin’s family, his friends, and everyone who found their voice and their verse thanks to Robin Williams."

Steven Speilberg added: “Robin was a lightning storm of comic genius and our laughter was the thunder that sustained him. He was a pal and I can’t believe he’s gone."

And the rest followed on twitter...

Conan O'Brien was taping his show last night when he heard the news and had this to say about the actor and comedian.

Personally, I'd like to thank Mr. Williams for Dead Poets Society, for Good Will Hunting, and particularly The Birdcage. I'd also like to thank him for one of the most quoted lines of my childhood.  Myself and the sister saw Mork in a brand new light when we stumbled across one of his stand up routines from The Met in 1986 (NSFW due to language). We watched it on a loop for years and still quote it today. Between this and Rik Mayall's impromptu passing, we better not lose any other comedy legends this year.


Details emerge regarding the death of Robin Williams, who was found at his home yesterday