Robin Williams: tributes

"Robin Williams was an airman, a doctor, a genie, a nanny, a president, a professor, a bangarang Peter Pan, and everything in between. But he was one of a kind.

"He made us laugh. He made us cry. He gave his immeasurable talent freely and generously to those who needed it most." - President Barack Obama

"Robin was a lightning storm of comic genius and our laughter was the thunder that sustained him. He was a pal and I can't believe he's gone." - Hollywood director Steven Spielberg

"I can't believe the news about Robin Williams. He gave so much to so many people. I'm heartbroken." - comedienne Ellen DeGeneres

"Robin Williams made the world laugh & think. I will remember & honor that. A great man, artist and friend. I will miss him beyond measure." - actor Kevin Spacey

"I could not be more stunned by the loss of Robin Williams, mensch, great talent, acting partner, genuine soul." - actor and comic Steve Martin

"Absolutely stunned to hear the news about Robin Williams. It's unimaginable to me that we've lost such a genuinely funny and sweet man." - talk-show host Conan O'Brien

"I can't believe my lovely friend is gone. My heart goes out to his wife and his beloved children. He brought us so much joy and laughter." - Monty Python stalwart Eric Idle

"No! Robin Williams you were so loved." - actress Mia Farrow

"RIP Robin. I will always remember you as one hell of a friend. I love you and will miss you terribly." - disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong

"A tweet cannot begin to describe the hugeness of Robin Williams (sic) heart and soul and talent. This is so sad." - actor/director Ben Stiller

"Heartbroken" - Danny DeVito