Michael J. Fox Reacts to News of Robin Williams Parkinson's Diagnosis

As BWW reported yesterday, Susan Schneider, the wife of Robin Williams, released a statement yesterday revealing that her husband was in the early stages of Parkinson's disease. The beloved actor and comedy legend passed away on Monday at age 63.

Upon hearing the news, actor Michael J. Fox, who also suffers from Parkinson's, took to Twitter to share that he was "stunned" upon hearing the news about his close friend.

"Stunned to learn Robin had PD. Pretty sure his support for our Fdn predated his diagnosis. A true friend; I wish him peace." FOX tweeted.

In her statement, Schneider also urged those battling depression, anxiety and other illnesses to find the proper help and support necessary.

About Robin Williams:

After studying theatre at Julliard, Mr. Williams rose to fame with his role as the alien Mork in the TV series "Mork & Mindy." Williams went on to establish a successful career in both stand-up comedy and feature film acting, winning an Oscar for his supporting role in Good Will Hunting. He was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor three times, received two Emmy Awards, four Golden Globe Awards, two Screen Actors Guild Awards and five Grammy Awards.

His film career included The World According to Garp; Good Morning, Vietnam; Dead Poets Society; Awakenings; The Fisher King; Good Will Hunting; Popeye; Hook; Aladdin; Mrs. Doubtfire; Jumanji; The Birdcage; Night at the Museum; and Happy Feet.

Mr. Williams starred in a number of theatrical productions, including Mike Nichols's 1988 off-Broadway version of Waiting for Godot, co-starring with Steve Martin; and his own one-man show, Robin Williams: Live on Broadway. In 2011, he made his acting debut on Broadway in the title role ofRajiv Joseph's drama Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo.

Source: Twitter

Photo Credit: Walter McBride / WM Photos