‘These days are always hard’: Robin Williams’ son honours his father’s memory on anniversary of his death

Content Warning: this article deals with drugs and mental health, which may be triggering for some readers.

As we mark the 9th anniversary of beloved comedian Robin Williams’ passing in 2014, his eldest child, Zachary “Zak” Pym Williams, has shared a heartfelt tribute on social media to honour his late father’s memory.

On Friday, August 11, the 40-year-old shared a poignant photo of the late Oscar winner wearing an oversized shirt and cargo shorts while playing tennis.

“Dad, on the 9th anniversary of your passing, I’m remembering you for your most excellent fashion choices,” Zak wrote in his caption.

“These days are always hard and I love remembering you for being so very, very YOU. Love you so much!”

 

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A post shared by Zachary Pym Williams (@zakpym)

The post received many comments from people who shared how the late actor had also impacted their lives.

“Your Dad was a major part of my childhood. He was a genie, an eccentric but lovable bat, a nanny, a sailor, a man who was a boy who could fly, and so much more. I only ever heard amazing things about him over the years, and it truly broke my heart when he passed away. Every time I think of him, I always wish I could have met him and thanked him for all the amazing work he did and how he made my childhood so much better. May he rest in peace,” one fan wrote.

“My mother passed away recently at 66. I feel your pain. Your father’s passing hit me hard. I grew up watching him on TV. I am truly so sorry for your loss. Losing a parent is so hard. Sending love and light to you and your family,” another added.

“I grew up watching all of your dad’s films and movies and he was a huge inspiration during my acting career and still is. When he passed, I was in utter shock but I always remember him day by day and I’m glad that his memory carries on. He is such a great influence and inspiration,” commented a third.

Zak’s latest tribute to his father comes just a month after he celebrated his father on what would have been his 72nd birthday on July 21.

 

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A post shared by Zachary Pym Williams (@zakpym)

Zak had previously opened up about his father’s death back in 2021 on an episode of the podcast The Genius Life. 

According to Zak, the months leading up to his father’s death “was very uncomfortable”.

“What I saw was frustration,” Zak said.

“What he was going through didn’t match one to one [with what] many Parkinson’s patients experience,” he said, making reference to his father’s misdiagnosis. “So, I think that was hard for him.”

Willaims had been incorrectly diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, but it was later revealed after his death that he had been suffering from a rare brain disorder called Lewy body disease, a type of progressive dementia that leads to a decline in thinking, reasoning and independent function.

“There was a focus issue that frustrated him, there were issues associated with how he felt and also from a neurological perspective he didn’t feel great,” Zak continued to say, before opening up about the harsh medicines his father had to take, explaining: “Those drugs are no joke. They’re also really hard on the mind and the body.

“I couldn’t help but feel beyond empathy,” he added. “I couldn’t help but feel frustrated for him. It can be really isolating even when you’re with family and loved ones.”

Willaims died by suicide at the age of 63 in August 2014 after severe ongoing depression.

MENTAL HEALTH DISCLAIMER: If you or anyone you know needs help: Lifeline — 13 11 14; MensLine Australia — 1300 789 978; BeyondBlue — 1300 224 636; Suicide Call Back Service — 1300 659 467; Headspace — 1800 650 890; Kids Helpline — 1800 551 800