Robin Williams' son pens sweet tribute to his father on 7th anniversary of his death—'You lived to bring laughter and to help others'

Robin Williams' son has paid a touching tribute to the late actor on the anniversary of his death.  

Zak Williams shared the heartfelt message on his social media platforms in commemoration of his father, who took his own life on 11 August 2014. At the time, Robin had been suffering from depression, addiction, and dementia. 

"Dad, seven years ago today you passed on. The joy and inspiration you brought to the world carries [sic] on in your legacy and in your family, friends, and fans you so loved," he wrote to a message to his 71k Twitter followers. "You lived to bring laughter and to help others. I will be celebrating your memory today. Love you forever." 

Zak also posted a portrait of his father on Instagram along with the caption, "Dad, I will be celebrating your memory today. Love you forever." 

Zak's messages were received by an outpouring of support from Robin's fans, many of whom replied with their own memories of the beloved comic. 

"I saw your dad live on the tonight show with Johnny Carson—he was joy personified—the hearts he touched with his genius, the tears of laughter we all shared …. He is truly missed & in our hearts forever," one person wrote. 

Zak's post also drew the attention of Robin's former colleagues, including Randi Mayem Singer. The Mrs. Doubtfire screenwriter credited him for changing her life, calling him "the nicest person I've ever worked with" and "gifted and generous beyond all others". 

Other fans took the opportunity to grieve, recounting the horrific day they learned of his passing. 

"I remember where I was clocking into my shift at the diner when I found out, and had to step into the bathroom to compose myself because I had so overwhelmed with emotions," one person commented. "Your father was a beautiful human being and I am so grateful that he shared his love with us." 

Robin's suicide rocked the entertainment industry, marking the tragic loss of one of Hollywood's most iconic talents. Zak, the eldest of the actor's three children, spoke candidly about his father's death in an interview last month, offering a rare insight into his deteriorating mental state. 

Speaking on The Genius Life podcast, the mental health advocate told host Max Lugavere that Robin had felt "frustrated" in the final stages of his illness. "There was just more anxiety and depression [than other people with dementia] and just things he was experiencing and talking to me about that made me realize he was very uncomfortable."

According to Zak, his father was also particularly distressed by his inability to work or pursue creative projects. "At least from my lens, what I found was someone who was having challenges performing his craft. And that was really irritating for him," said Zak. "When you're a performer, it goes beyond pride in what you're performing, it's your livelihood."

What was the last movie Robin Williams made? 

Robin Williams' last movie before his death was Absolutely Anything, a comedy in which he voiced the character of a talking dog. The film hit UK cinemas in 2015, a year after his death. 

Robin Williams' quotes about life

• I used to think that the worst thing in life was to end up alone. It's not. The worst thing in life is to end up with people who make you feel alone.
• Spring is nature's way of saying, 'Let's party!'
• You're only given a little spark of madness. You mustn't lose it.
• No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world.
• I think the saddest people always try their hardest to make people happy.
• Comedy can be a cathartic way to deal with personal trauma.