The world was devastated in 2014 when the beloved actor took his own life. Known for unforgettable performances in Good Will Hunting, Dead Poets Society, and countless other classics, Williams had long been seen as a source of joy and laughter. Behind the scenes, however, he was battling something far more serious than anyone realized — a rare and aggressive brain disorder known as Lewy body dementia.
At first, many assumed depression and past struggles were behind his tragic decision. But an autopsy later revealed the truth: the disease had spread throughout his brain and brain stem. His widow, Susan Schneider Williams, later said, “The doctors asked if I was surprised that Lewy bodies were found everywhere in his brain. I said no — it finally made sense.”
Lewy body dementia, a condition that affects memory, movement, and mood, is the second most common type of degenerative dementia after Alzheimer’s. According to Susan, Robin often expressed how confused and trapped he felt, saying at one point, “I just want to reboot my brain.” She vowed to help him find answers — not realizing she’d only get them after his death.
Doctors later confirmed how severe his case had been. “This was one of the most devastating forms of Lewy body dementia I’ve ever seen,” said Dr. Bruce Miller of UCSF. “It’s remarkable he was still able to walk or move.”
Despite his worsening condition, Robin Williams continued to work. One of his last roles was as Teddy Roosevelt in Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, where he delivered the tender line, “Smile, my boy, it’s sunrise.” Many fans took it as a bittersweet farewell.
However, his actual final live-action role came in the 2015 drama Boulevard. In that film, his last-ever on-screen words now feel especially poignant:
“I drove down a street one night. A street I didn’t know. It’s the way your life goes sometimes. I’ll drive down this one and another. And now, another.”
Those words — reflective, uncertain, and hauntingly beautiful — seem to capture both the confusion and quiet acceptance that defined his final years.
If you or someone you love is struggling, help is available. You can call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for support.
Robin Williams brought laughter and light to millions, and though he’s gone, his spirit lives on in every smile he inspired. Rest in peace, Robin — we’ll never forget you.