Ron Galella/WireImageChristopher Reeve's family is paying tribute to their longtime friend Robin Williams following his tragic passing.
"The Reeve family, like many, will remember Robin for the humor, energy and brightness he brought into our lives through the screen," the family said in a statement posted on the Reeve Foundation Website. "We will cherish him, though, for the quiet and unwavering support he showed our family through the hardest times. The world knew Robin as a comedic titan, but to our family, he was simply one of our Dad's dearest friends. From the moment they were classmates at Juilliard, their friendship transformed into a brotherhood that was built on a mutual admiration for the theater, the arts and, most importantly, laughter."
The statement continued, "After our father's accident, Robin's visit to his hospital room was the first time that Dad truly laughed. Dad later said, 'My old friend had helped me know that somehow I was going to be okay.' Robin and his incredible family stayed by our side for the rest of Dad's life, and long after that as well. He and [ex-wife] Marsha Garces joined the Board of the Reeve Foundation, and provided unending support without fanfare or question.
"Robin's unparalleled legacy on screen will last through the ages. But beyond the gift of laughter, he gave our family and the Reeve Foundation the gift of his simple, steadfast friendship. It's a gift we'll treasure forever."
News of Williams' unexpected passing broke yesterday. The Oscar winner's cause of death has been determined as asphyxia due to hanging.
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