Koko The Gorilla “Cries" At Robin Williams Death

A famous American gorilla who can communicate using sign language has demonstrated her sadness at the death of Robin Williams.

The actor met Koko in 2001 and spent time playing and ‘talking’ to her. You can watch their moving and funny meeting in the video above.

Koko is well-known for using and understanding more than 1000 human signs.

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Her trainer Penny Patterson said that when news broke of Williams’ death and Koko heard someone crying, the gorilla signed “cry lip” and withdrew. She bowed her head and her lip quivered.

Patterson released a statement remembering Williams’ visit.

“Robin’s ability to just ‘hang out’ with Koko, a gorilla, and in minutes become one of her closest friends, was extraordinary and unforgettable for Koko,” she said. “We hope that when you remember Robin Williams, you’ll remember that he is not only one of the world’s most beloved entertainers but also one of the world’s most powerful ambassadors for great ape conservation.”

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Williams clearly had a good time when he visited Koko’s home. The gorilla stole his glasses and walked around wearing them before encouraging him to chase and tickle her. She also took his wallet from his pocket and rifled through it.

When Patterson took down a VHS of ‘Dead Poet’s Society’, Koko appeared to recognize the actor from the front cover.

Williams called the experience “mind-altering”. “It was awesome and unforgettable,” he said.

Photo: The Gorilla Foundation