Robin Williams’ three children are finding a new way to honour their father’s legacy.
Zak, 43, Zelda, 37, and Cody Williams, 34, have announced plans to maintain their father’s Instagram account, using it as a place to share authentic photographs, videos, stories and memories.
The announcement comes as the family marks what would have been Williams’ 75th birthday.
“As we recognize what would be our Dad’s 75th year, we’re grateful to see new generations discovering his work while longtime fans continue to celebrate the joy he brought into their lives,” they said in a joint statement.
“As technology evolves, we want this to be a safe, trusted place where the stories, photos, videos, and memories shared reflect his legacy with authenticity, warmth, and care.”
“He continues to inspire us and delight people all over the world,” they added.
The decision also comes after Zelda previously spoke out about the growing use of artificial intelligence to recreate her father’s voice and likeness.
She has previously asked fans not to send her AI-generated videos of Williams and said the family wanted his official account to provide a more authentic way for people to remember him.
“Believe me, I know it’s a little strange,” she shared.
“But making that space into one where people can find authentic clips and photos of him is one of the best ways we’ve now found to fight back against rampant AI abuse of his voice and likeness on here.”
Williams died by suicide at his home in California on August 11, 2014, aged 63. His death was followed by the revelation that he had been experiencing anxiety and depression and had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
An autopsy later found that he had Lewy body disease, a form of dementia.
His children have continued to remember their father publicly, often sharing personal memories of the man behind some of Hollywood’s most recognisable characters.
On what would have been his 75th birthday on July 21, Zelda shared a heartfelt tribute.
“Happy 75th womb evacuation anniversary Poppo!” Zelda said on the platform. “Not sure what 75 would’ve looked like on you.
“Probably the same loud socks and cool jackets. Maybe some more crazy glasses as your eyesight got worse. Grayer, but no less hairy.”
She added: “Wish we could talk about the world and joke about my haunted pups. Bet your laugh would be the same. You are loved beyond measure and missed daily. Happy 75th Poppo.”
Zak also remembered his father’s warmth and generosity.
“Happy 75th Dad! Today I’m remembering your weirdness and your extraordinary capacity to love.
“I remember those wrinkles in the corners of your eyes – the kind you get from a lifetime of smiling. I remember your unending need to see this world free of human and animal suffering.”
He encouraged fans to honour his father by spreading kindness.
“For those out there who’d like to celebrate with me, go do something kind for someone. Make someone laugh. Put a little more good into the world. Love you forever.”
Image: Instagram
Don’t go it alone. Please reach out for help.
Lifeline: 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au
