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REX/FremantleMedia Ltd
World News

Christian tributes to Robin Williams

The 63-year-old was found dead at his home in San Francisco yesterday.

His wife says the world's lost one of its most beloved artists, while President Obama paid tribute to 'one of a kind'.

Vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton Church in London, Nicky Gumbel tweeted:

'No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world.'
 #RIPRobinWilliams

@nickygumbel

Williams was famous for such films like Mrs Doubtfire, Good Morning Vietnam and Dead Poets Society.

He won an Oscar for his role in Good Will Hunting.

His well known roles include

- Mork and Mindy

- Good Morning, Vietnam

- Dead Poets Society

- Mrs Doutbfire

- Good Will Hunting

He has spoken in the past about his battle with alcohol and drug addiction and his publicist said he was "battling severe depression".

Dean at Durham Cathedral Michael Sadgrove has tweeted:

On my personal list of all-time favourite films: Dead Poets' Society 1989. Still inspired by it. RIP #RobinWilliams.

@Sadgrovem

In July the Los Angeles Times said the actor had gone back to rehab to "fine-tune" his sobriety.

In a statement police said: "At this time, the Sheriff's Office Coroner Division suspects the death to be a suicide due to asphyxia, but a comprehensive investigation must be completed before a final determination is made".

Susan Schneider, the comedian's wife, said in a statement: "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."

She added that she was "utterly heartbroken".

Flowers and candle tributes have been left at his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. People have also been praying for him there.

Founder of the Oasis Trust, Steve Chalke said:

"Carpe diem, seize the day...make your lives extraordinary." Robin Williams

@SteveChalke

Jonathan Clarke from Premier's Mind and Soul said some people are weary of sharing mental health problems, especially in church: "People feel embarrassed, people are scared about what response they'll get within a church.

"Quite a lot of people I've know over the years have started sharing something, only to be told pull yourself together, or pray about it or don't you realise God loves. They are given all sorts of responses."

President Obama has also paid tribute. He said: "Williams 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 marginalised on our own streets."

Flowers, messages and tributes left at actor Robin Williams' star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Meanwhile Actor Todd Bridges has been attacked on Twitter after he said Williams was "selfish" and that he should have asked God for help.

The Diff'rent Strokes star tweeted minutes after the comedians apparent suicide was confirmed: "It is a very selfish act you're not thinking about your family your friends or your fans.

"If I did that what am i showing my children that when it gets tough that's the way out No you gotta buckle down ask God to help you. That's when prayer really comes into effect.

"Rest in peace Robin Williams I hope you found what you were looking for".

After severe criticism from people online he deleted the tweets and posted an apology.

"I would like to apologise for the terrible timing of me comments that I made in reference to the untimely death of Robin Williams.

"My best friend committed suicide a few months ago, and I was devastated to discover that he did not solicit my help. I am sure that my attitude toward Williams's death was a delayed reaction of my best friend's death." He said.

Christian film critic Mark Dighe spoke with Marcus Jones on Premier's News Hour:

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