The son of legendary actor and comedian Robin Williams recently disclosed that his father’s true diagnosis was discovered only after his death, revealing a misdiagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. Robin Williams had been incorrectly diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease two years before his passing, experiencing symptoms such as involuntary movements, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination.
Zak Williams, the actor’s son, posted a heartfelt tribute expressing his gratitude for the countless people who had been supported through tough times by his father’s work and philosophy. Last Sunday would have marked Robin Williams’ 73rd birthday, and Zak did not miss the opportunity to honor his father and connect with fans: “Dad, on what would be your 73rd birthday, I remember you for all the hope and joy you brought to the world. There’s not a week that goes by without someone sharing with me how you helped them through a dark time or a rough patch. I’m so grateful and proud to be your son. Love you forever.”
The revelation came after an autopsy conducted following Williams’ death showed that he had been suffering from undiagnosed Lewy body dementia (LBD). This condition progressively caused symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease. Lewy body dementia is the second-most common type of dementia after Alzheimer’s disease, and currently, there is no known cure or treatment to slow down this aggressive neurological disorder.
In 2021, Zak Williams also discussed the impact of his father’s misdiagnosis and the effects of the neurological disease on Max Lugavere’s “The Genius Life” podcast. He explained how the misdiagnosis left his father “very uncomfortable” and “frustrated” in his final years, noting that what Robin Williams experienced was different from what other patients with Parkinson’s disease went through.
This new understanding of Robin Williams’ condition underscores the complexities and challenges in diagnosing neurological diseases and highlights the importance of continued research and awareness.