Friends and Family Pay Tribute to the Late Robin Williams

As we struggle to make sense of the death of Robin Williams, we've spent some time here remembering him as a person and his work. We're obviously just a few of the many, many people Robin Williams touched during his lifetime. Among them are the many people he worked with over the years, from his days as a guest star on 'Happy Days' to his upcoming role in 'Night at the Museum 3.' Below are some thoughts, prayers and remembrances from friends and family who had the pleasure of knowing him both on- and off-screen.

"Robin was a lightning storm of comic genius and our laughter was the thunder that sustained him. He was a pal and I can’t believe he’s gone." - Steven Spielberg

"His performances were unlike anything any of us had ever seen, they came from some spiritual and otherworldly place. He truly was one of the few people who deserved the title of “genius”. We were friends for 21 years. Our children grew up together, he inspired us to spend our lives in San Francisco and I loved him like a brother. The world was a better place with Robin in it. And his beautiful legacy will live on forever." - 'Mrs. Doubtfire' director Chris Columbus

"I will never forget the day I met him and he stood on his head in my office chair and pretended to drink a glass of water using his finger like a straw. Robin was hands-down a comedy genius and one of the most talented performers I have ever worked with in television or film. To lose him so young at the age of 63 is just a tragedy. I will forever be in awe of his timing, his talent and his pure and golden creativity. He could make everybody happy but himself." - 'Happy Days' producer Garry Marshall

"I saw him on stage the very first time he auditioned at the Improv in Los Angeles, and we have been friends ever since. It’s a very sad day." - Jay Leno

"Robin and I were great friends, suffering from the same little-known disease: depression. I never could have expected this ending to his life, and to ours with him. God bless him and God bless us all for his life! I cannot believe this. I am overwhelmed with grief. What a wonderful man/boy and what a tremendous talent in the most important art of any time – comedy! I loved him." - Chevy Chase

"I feel stunned and so sad about Robin. I'm sad for the world of comedy. And so very sad for his family. And I'm sad for Robin. He always lit up when he was able to make people laugh, and he made them laugh his whole life long – tirelessly. He was one of a kind. There will not be another. Please God, let him now rest in peace." - Sally Field