Robin Williams' Son Zak Pays Emotional Tribute To Him On His Sixth Death Anniversary

Aug 14, 2020

Marking the sixth anniversary of his father’s death this week, Zak Williams, Robin Williams’ son, paid tribute to his dad in an emotional post on Instagram. Robin Williams, an award-winning comedian and celebrated actor, took his own life on August 11, 2014 at the age of 63 at his home in Paradise Cay, California.

The late actor Robin Williams was beloved by many. From young children who grew up watching him voice the Genie in Disney's Aladdin, to older folks who were familiar with his '70s and '80s-era comedy, Robin Williams is one of those rare actors who crossed generations. This week, 37-year-old Zak Williams paid tribute to that legacy on Instagram — 6 years following his father’s passing.

“Dad, today marks six years since your passing,” Zak Williams wrote to his more than 16 thousand followers on Instagram. “Your legacy lives on in your family and in those who carry your spirit within their hearts. We will continue to fight for what’s good in the world, for peace, and for connecting people instead of tearing them apart. Love you so much!”

Zak posted the tribute alongside a black and white photo of his father sporting a beard.

Robin Williams is survived by his wife, Susan Schneider, his son Zak, his son Cody and his daughter Zelda. In 2014, his death shocked the country, leading to an outpour of tributes and support from figures as high up and well known as then-President Barack Obama.

“Robin Williams was an airman, a doctor, a genie, a nanny, a president, a professor, a bangarang Peter Pan, and everything in between.  But he was one of a kind,” President Obama said in a White House statement. “He arrived in our lives as an alien – but he ended up touching every element of the human spirit.  He made us laugh.  He made us cry.  He gave his immeasurable talent freely and generously to those who needed it most – from our troops stationed abroad to the marginalized on our own streets.”

On the day leading up to Robin Williams’ death anniversary this week, 31-year-old Zelda Williams also made an announcement, though she told her followers on social media that she would be taking a break from social media.

“As I’ve said in the past, while I am constantly touched by all of your boundless continued love for [my dad], some days it can feel a bit like being seen as a roadside memorial,” Zelda wrote in a statement on Twitter. Zelda further explained that in lieu of spending time on social media on her father’s death anniversary, she would share mental health and suicide prevention resources.

Other celebrities and fans — including Fanny Singer, Alexander Gilkes, and Lerato Kedibone Tsambo — offered their support and remembered the late Williams in the comments section of Zak’s tribute post.

“Love to you Z. And eternal love for your papa,” Singer wrote.

Rest in peace, Robin Williams. Pass this tribute on to friends, family members, and fellow Robin Williams fans. And be sure to let us know how this incredible actor touched your life.

If you or anybody you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, please call Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention, and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.