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Maori comedian Mike King says the death of Robin Williams is a reminder of the need for people to be able to share their problems.
The star of Mork and Mindy, Goodwill Hunting and Good Morning Vietnam is believed to have committed suicide in his northern California home.
Mr King, who is in the Hawkes Bay this week talking to schoolchildren about suicide, says Williams was taken by the taniwha while he was at his most vulnerable.
He says that's why it's important to get kids to talk about their problems before they get to the suicidal stage.
"We have a harden up, stay staunch culture in Aotearoa, especially among Maori, where it is seen as a sign of weakness to ask for help or admit you are having troubles, and I am trying to break down that whole stigma and encourage our rangatahi to get up and let us know when they are having problems," he says.
Mike King says while a comedian's greatest joy is making other people happy, some are not so happy in their own lives.
FOR THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH MIKE KING CLICK ON THE LINK
https://secure.zeald.com/uma/play_podcast?podlink=MjEwODk=
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