Why Robin Williams' kids revived his Instagram account more than a decade after his death
Robin Williams' kids are continuing to honor his legacy.
Earlier this week, Zak, Zelda, and Cody Williams shared a joint statement on their late father's official Instagram account announcing that they were reviving the page as new generations of fans discover his work.
"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 wrote.
They continued, "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."
They ended their message by writing, "This is our way of sharing his unique talent and humor with the world, including the moments that made us and so many of you laugh, as we remember our Dad's extraordinary life and work. He continues to inspire us and delight people all over the world."
The post comes 12 years after Robin Williams' death on Aug. 11, 2014, at age 63. The last post the actor and comedian shared on his Instagram account was in July 2014, when he shared a birthday tribute to his daughter.
On Monday, Zelda Williams expanded on the siblings' decision to reactivate their father's Instagram account, which comes amid growing use of his image and likeness in generative AI videos.
"Believe me, I know it's a little strange," Zelda Williams wrote in an Instagram story post, according to Variety.
She added, "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."
In October 2025, Zelda Williams took to social media to criticize AI-generated videos of her late father, asking followers to "stop sending me AI videos of Dad."
"Stop believing I wanna see it or that I'll understand, I don't and I won't," she wrote in an Instagram story post, according to People. "If you're just trying to troll me, I've seen way worse, i'Il restrict and move on. But please, if you've got any decency, just stop doing this to him and to me, to everyone even, full stop. It's dumb, it's a waste of time and energy, and believe me, it's NOT what he'd want."
Throughout his life, Robin Williams built a reputation as a legendary comedian and improvisational master, and was beloved for his memorable turns in both dramas and comedies alike.
The Oscar-winning actor had a broad catalog of work including films such as "Good Will Hunting," "Mrs. Doubtfire," "The Birdcage," "Hook," "Jumanji," "Dead Poets Society," "Good Morning, Vietnam," "Aladdin," "Night at the Museum," and more, as well as TV series including "Mork & Mindy," "Happy Days," and "The Crazy Ones," his final television role.
Over the years since his death, Robin Williams' kids have kept his memory alive by reminding others on social media about who he was while also raising awareness about mental health struggles.
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