Robin Williams' son has responded to a tweet which claimed the actor had ‘left his family behind’.
The cruel comment was posted on a Father’s Day tribute by Zak Williams to his late father, which spoke of the comedian’s ‘courage and compassion’.
Though the tweet has now been deleted, fans have praised Zak for his way of handling the situation.
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Williams had initially made the loving tribute to his father on Sunday, sharing two photos from his dad’s many iconic roles.
Posted on Twitter, it read: “To all the dads out there who go all out for their loved ones, thank you for everything you do. Dad, I'm specifically remembering you for your courage and compassion today.
“Thank you for helping me learn how to be kind to myself as a first step towards showing up for others.
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"Happy Father's Day, LOVE YOU forever!”
While fans reacted kindly to the touching tribute, one user claimed that the comedian ‘had left his family behind’ after taking his own life in 2014.
At the time of his suicide, the Night at the Museum actor had been misdiagnosed with Parkinson's and experiencing depression throughout his adult life.
Incredibly, Zak responded without resentment – instead explaining just how difficult it was to lose a loved one and how his father had been a loving parent to his kids.
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Tagging to the responder, he wrote: “First, I want to acknowledge your perspective. With that said, there was a time when I was resentful and I've done what I believe is necessary to work through the stigma associated with what you are referencing.”
Continuing, he added: "No one is asking you to idolize my father. I adored him as he was an incredible friend and parent and I'm sharing what I am remembering him for today.
“Wishing you a Happy Father's Day as you deserve to be happy (we all do)!”
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As many of us would have struggled to have such a dignified response, the tweet has been praised by fans.
“This was a far kinder response than that guy deserved,” pointedly wrote one fan, while another added that the tribute had made their day.
“Your father was beloved & respected by millions & millions. It’s no surprise that he raised such a decent & kind son,” they added.
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A third tweeted: “Zak I really respect yourself control you are a lot nicer than most people would have been in this situation.”
Just like his dad touched the hearts of millions, Zak’s kind words even struck a chord with the poster – who has since apologised for their mishandled tweet.
It proves just how powerful the right words can be.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their UK helpline on 0808 808 1677
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If you or someone you know is struggling or in mental health crisis, help is available through Mental Health America. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.
You can also call 1-800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs” to 66746 at the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline.
Topics: Robin Williams, Film and TV, Celebrity, Twitter, Parenting
Katherine Sidnell