Robin Williams' Wife Reveals Actor Was in Early Stages of Parkinson's Disease

Susan Schneider, the wife of Robin Williams, has today released a statement revealing that her husband was in the early stages of Parkinson's disease. Schneider urges those battling depression, anxiety and other illnesses to find the proper help and support necessary. The beloved actor and comedy legend passed away on Monday at age 63.

The statement follows:

"Robin spent so much of his life helping others. Whether he was entertaining millions on stage, film or television, our troops on the frontlines, or comforting a sick child - Robin wanted us to laugh and to feel less afraid.

Since his passing, all of us who loved Robin have found some solace in the tremendous outpouring of affection and admiration for him from the millions of people whose lives he touched. His greatest legacy, besides his three children, is the joy and happiness he offered to others, particularly to those fighting personal battles.

Robin's sobriety was intact and he was brave as he struggled with his own battles of depression, anxiety as well as early stages of Parkinson's Disease, which he was not yet ready to share publicly.

It is our hope in the wake of Robin's tragic passing, that others will find the strength to seek the care and support they need to treat whatever battles they are facing so they may feel less afraid."

About Robin Williams:

After studying theatre at Julliard, Mr. Williams rose to fame with his role as the alien Mork in the TV series "Mork & Mindy." Williams went on to establish a successful career in both stand-up comedy and feature film acting, winning an Oscar for his supporting role in Good Will Hunting. He was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor three times, received two Emmy Awards, four Golden Globe Awards, two Screen Actors Guild Awards and five Grammy Awards.

His film career included The World According to Garp; Good Morning, Vietnam; Dead Poets Society; Awakenings; The Fisher King; Good Will Hunting; Popeye; Hook; Aladdin; Mrs. Doubtfire; Jumanji; The Birdcage; Night at the Museum; and Happy Feet.

Mr. Williams starred in a number of theatrical productions, including Mike Nichols's 1988 off-Broadway version of Waiting for Godot, co-starring with Steve Martin; and his own one-man show, Robin Williams: Live on Broadway. In 2011, he made his acting debut on Broadway in the title role ofRajiv Joseph's drama Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo.

Source: Deadline.com

Photo Credit: Walter McBride / WM Photos