Zachary Pym Williams, son of the late actor Robin Williams, shared a touching message commemorating his father on his birthday.
The comedy legend, who starred in Mrs. Doubtfire, Dead Poets Society, Aladdin, and, Good Will Hunting among many other hits, died on August 11, 2014, at the age of 63 of suicide.
On what would have been Robin’s 73rd birthday if he was still alive, his eldest son remembered his legacy.
‘Dad, on what would be your 73rd birthday, I remember you for all the hope and joy you brought to the world,’ Zachary wrote on Instagram.
‘There’s not a week that goes by without someone sharing with me how you helped them through a dark time or a rough patch,’ the actor’s son continued.
‘I’m so grateful and proud to be your son. Love you forever.’ he movingly concluded.
Accompanying his heartfelt words was a black and white photo of the late actor, showing him with his legs crossed and fingers connected in a meditation style.
Williams has a mischievous smile in the photo as he sits on the ground in front of a couch.
Known for his boundless energy and unique comedic genius, Robin was one of the brightest stars in Hollywood, known for the heartwarming hilarity of Mrs. Doubtfire and the inspirational guidance he offered in Dead Poets Society.
Jumanji, Good Morning, Vietnam, and Good Will Hunting – for which he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor – are also among the films on the actor’s unforgettable resume.
Robin struggled with severe depression and anxiety though out his life, battles that culminated in his tragic death by suicide in August 2014 at the age of 63.
The news of his passing sent shockwaves through Hollywood and beyond, as fans and colleagues mourned the loss of someone who seemed so outwardly joyful.
Zachary, the only child of Robin Williams and Valerie Velardi, has been vocal about his father’s impact on his life and the lives of many others since his passing.
Robin Williams also shared two children, Zelda and Cody, with his second wife, Marsha Garces. In 2011, Williams married his third wife, graphic designer Susan Schneider.
In addition to commemorating his father’s birthday, Zachary recently remembered his dad on Father’s Day in an Instagram post, similarly recognizing his father’s ‘thoughtfulness and compassion.’
‘On this tenth Father’s Day without you, I’m remembering your incredible thoughtfulness and compassion for others,’ he wrote. ‘Thank you for showing me what it truly means to be unconditionally loving and kind. I miss you and love you today and every day.’
Robin Williams’ death brought significant attention to mental health issues, particularly in the entertainment industry.
His struggles with depression, compounded by a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease and later revelations of Lewy body dementia, highlighted the importance of mental health awareness and support.
The shock and sadness that followed his passing prompted conversations about how society addresses mental health, the stigmas associated with it, and the necessary steps to provide better support for those in need.
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
MORE : ‘I play one of the world’s most famous characters – but my kids kept me a secret’