Valerie Velardi: Robin Williams’ First Wife Remains Silent After His Suicide
Valerie Velardi married Robin Williams in 1978 and gave birth to his first child three years later, but now, in the wake of the comedian’s suicide, she has remained silent as other family members share their memories.
Several other family members have issued statements and remembered Robin in the two days since his body was discovered in his California home, including his daughter Zelda and the former couple’s son, Zachary Pym Williams.
But Velardi, who stood by as Robin Williams made his big break into Hollywood with roles in Happy Days and then Mork and Mindy, has not yet spoken publicly.
By all accounts, Robin Williams and Valerie Velardi endured quite a bit together, both good and bad. After the high of Robin’s acting breakout, he fell into a world of partying and drugs and struggled to control his addictions.
Their son, Zachary Pym Williams, has been more vocal about his father’s death. On Tuesday, he issued a statement calling his late father his “best friend.”
In an emotional statement, Zak said:
“Yesterday, I lost my father and a best friend and the world got a little grayer. I will carry his heart with me every day. I would ask those that loved him to remember him by being as gentle, kind, and generous as he would be. Seek to bring joy to the world as he sought.”
Others family members have spoken out as well. Robin’s third wife, Susan Schneider, issued a release on behalf of the entire family:
“This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings. I am utterly heartbroken. On behalf of Robin’s family, we are asking for privacy during our time of profound grief. As he is remembered, it is our hope the focus will not be on Robin’s death, but on the countless moments of joy and laughter he gave to millions.”
But there are also indications that family problems could have contributed to the depression Robin Williams suffered. There were reports that he was dealing with deep financial problems, and he joked in an interview last year that his two divorces were quite costly — thought he did not mention Valerie Velardi by name.
[Image Via de.kino.yahoo.com]
