Nation Mourns Death of Comedic Actor Robin Williams

America is mourning the death of actor and comedic genius Robin Williams. The Hollywood icon died in an apparent suicide Monday at his California home at the age of 63.
 
"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," Williams' wife, Susan Schneider, said.
 
"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," she said.
 
Williams burst onto the scene in the late 1970s, playing an alien on the sitcom "Mork and Mindy." 
    
He would go on to become an Oscar-winning actor that could make us all smile - and cry.

Licensed family therapist Dr. Linda Mintle shared her expertise about depression and what role it may have played in the death of Robin Williams. Click below for her comments.

 
 
Through the years Williams starred in countless hit films, like the now classic "Mrs. Doubtfire."  Overnight Monday in San Francisco, fans laid flowers at the original home where the movie was shot.
   
Williams was perhaps known more for his comedic talents, with experts calling him a comic genius.
 
"Robin was one of the greatest comedians of all time," Jamie Masada, founder of The Laugh Factory, said.
  
But he was also known for his range and depth on stage and on screen, like in the movie "Good Will Hunting" where he won an Oscar for playing psychologist Sean Maguire.
  
Fans say he changed their lives.
 
"When I was 12 years old I saw 'Mrs. Doubtfire' for the first time and that range and his energy was just electric.  And I said that's what I have to do for a living," one person said.
 
Another person said, "He made everyone laugh."

"One of the very best," one woman said.

"He brought so many smiles to so many people," said one fan.

"Everyone in America tonight feels like they just got punched in the stomach," comedian Paul Rodriguez said.
   
President Barack Obama described Williams as "one of a kind" and someone who "ended up touching every element in the human spirit."
  
In his personal life, Williams struggled with depression and substance abuse addiction and talked openly about it over the years.  Just last month, he announced he was returning to a 12-step treatment program.
   
"When a person stops an addictive behavior and there are symptoms of traumatic stress, the risk of suicide increases significantly," Regent University counseling professor Sherry Todd told CBN News
   
Williams leaves behind his wife and three children - and something for the fans:  four upcoming movies.