Ricky Gervais has paid tribute to the late Robin Williams, describing the comic as "one of the loveliest men" he’s ever met.
The 53-year-old star was saddened by the news of Robin’s suicide on Monday (11.08.14) at the age of 63.
Ricky appeared with Robin in the ‘Night at the Museum’ movies and admits he’ll never forget the man’s wonderful sense of humour.
During an interview on ‘This Morning, the former ‘Office’ actor said: "It’s really sad, he’s one of the loveliest men I’ve ever met. "Even when he wasn’t well, he would just try his best to make you laugh – you could see it was a chore, almost, but he’d absolutely love it."
Despite his incredible success as stand-up and in Hollywood, Ricky insists Robin never lost his passion for comedy and especially new comics.
He recalled: "I did a benefit gig with him (Robin) and there were loads of new comedians that we hadn’t heard of, and he spent the whole night at the side of the stage watching them – you could hear him laughing louder than anyone – and they were just blown away. He was a legend. Amazing. It’s really sad."
Since Robin’s passing tributes have flooded in from his peers and fans, President Barack Obama, Ben Stiller and Russell Brand among the stars to remember him.
Ben Affleck – who starred alongside Robin in ‘Good Will Hunting’, the film Ben co-wrote with Matt Damon and which earned the late star the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor – wrote on Facebook: "Thanks chief – for your friendship and for what you gave the world. Robin had a ton of love in him. He personally did so much for so many people. He made [Matt Damon] and my dreams come true. What do you owe a guy who does that? Everything. May you find peace my friend. #RobinWilliams. (sic)"
Ricky Gervais: Robin Williams was a lovely man
