Robin Williams’s oldest son Zak is speaking out about the legendary comic’s legacy and sudden death. The Good Morning, Vietnam star died by suicide in 2014. It was a shock to many of his fans who wondered how someone who brought such joy to others could be so very depressed.
Zak shared his experiences with “Good Morning Britain.” He was candidly honest about what it was like growing up in Robin Williams’ spotlight and then suddenly losing this man who millions of people loved.
“Being Robin Williams’ son was wonderful in so many ways [but] having to share him with the world was hard at times,” Zak stated. “When he was having challenges and going through certain things, it was heartbreaking, because he still went out and wanted to share his feelings of laughter and humor with the world.”
Robin Williams’ Son Is A Mental Health Advocate
36-year-old Zak Williams has become a mental health advocate following his his beloved father’s death. Robin’s death was a shock to the family and they had to deal with grieving in the public eye given his father’s fan base.
“Sharing the grieving process with the world was hard,” Zak shared. “At times it was hard to differentiate what involved private grieving, and experiencing that loss, versus public grieving and experiencing that type of community interaction and communicating. I wasn’t prepared.”
Robin Williams' son Zak welcomes baby boy and names him after his dad. https://t.co/WNGH0z8VzP pic.twitter.com/p5uGt8weZv
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Zak says the support of his father’s fans has helped carry him over the five years since Robin’s death. His legacy of laughter and caring has continued years after his passing. That brings the Williams family much comfort.
“It was challenging,” Williams admitted. “But I’m very grateful for the outpouring of love and support that continued… Here we are almost five years later. I feel the massive impact and difference he made.”
The “Good Morning Britain” interview with Zak Williams can be viewed below.