Mancunians Jason Manford and Paddy McGuinness have been leading tributes to actor and comedy legend Robin Williams, who died last night of an apparent suicide.
The 63-year-old was found dead in his California home after emergency services were called to the address and is believed to have died from asphyxia.
Williams’ publicist said he had been ‘battling severe depression’ and in the past the comedic had even joked about his struggles with alcohol and drugs.
The actor was famous for his roles in Good Morning Vietnam, Mrs Doubtfire and Good Will Hunting, for which he won an Oscar.
As well as being a prolific actor, he was perhaps best known for his comedic work and comedians from around the world took to social media to honour the funny man.
Maford posted on Twitter: “RIP Robin Williams. So unbelievably sad about this news. One of the funniest talented comedians the world has ever produced.”
RIP Robin Williams. So unbelievably sad about this news. One of the funniest talented comedians the world has ever produced.
— JasonManford (@JasonManford) August 11, 2014
Dammit. Was hoping it’d been a horrible nightmare or a hoax. #RIPRobinWilliams
— JasonManford (@JasonManford) August 12, 2014
Meanwhile, Phoenix Nights and Take Me Out star Paddy McGuinness was quick to express his sadness while pointing out Williams’ influence.
“RIP Robin Williams. I used to sit upside down on the couch watching [Mork and Mindy]. Happy times,” said Paddy.
RIP Robin Williams. I used to sit upside down on the couch watching this. Happy times. pic.twitter.com/Pg1VN7WsrX
— Paddy McGuinness (@PaddyMcGuinness) August 11, 2014
Other British comedians also voiced their shock and sadness at the news including Stephen Fry and Eddie Izzard.
Devastating news about @robinwilliams — knew him a little and liked him a whole lot more. A brain wired like no other and so so kind.
— Stephen Fry (@stephenfry) August 12, 2014
Robin Williams has died and I am very sad. From every comedian here at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, we salute him & we say goodbye
— Eddie Izzard (@eddieizzard) August 11, 2014
Famous American comedians such as Kevin Hart, Steve Martin and Ben Stiller remembered the effect that he had on their lives and profession.
I’m speechless….RIP To a COMEDIC GENIUS!!!! Gone but not forgotten. #RIPROBINWILLIAMS http://t.co/4RKN9G0Jwx
— Kevin Hart (@KevinHart4real) August 12, 2014
I could not be more stunned by the loss of Robin Williams, mensch, great talent, acting partner, genuine soul.
— Steve Martin (@SteveMartinToGo) August 11, 2014
A tweet cannot begin to describe the hugeness of Robin Williams heart and soul and talent. This is so sad. #RobinWilliams
— Ben Stiller (@RedHourBen) August 12, 2014
His impact on the world was so positive. He did so much good for people. He made me and so many people laugh so hard for a very long time.
— Ben Stiller (@RedHourBen) August 12, 2014
In a statement, Williams’ wife, Susan Schneider, said she was ‘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.”
Williams had three children from previous marriages and last posted a message on Instagram wishing his daughter a happy birthday.
Image courtesy of Miramax Films, via Youtube, with thanks
