Robin Williams’ son Zak has paid an emotional tribute to his father 12 years after his death, sharing a photo of the legendary actor as Popeye, a role with a special connection to Malta.

Williams starred as the iconic sailor in 1980’s Popeye, which was filmed at Anchor Bay in Mellieħa. The elaborate set built for the production was later transformed into what we now know as Popeye Village.

Sharing the photo two days ago, Zak reflected on how his father’s legacy continues to touch people more than a decade after his passing.

“And just like that, twelve years since you left us,” he wrote, adding that there are now children being helped by his father’s work who had not even been born when Williams died.

Zak described how his grief has changed over the years, becoming “quieter, but deeper”, and said that somewhere along the way it had turned into purpose.

He also reflected on one of his father’s most enduring messages: “You taught the world that laughter and pain live in the same house, Dad. Neither one has to be carried alone.”

Ending the heartfelt tribute, Zak spoke about how much Williams would have loved his grandchildren, before writing: “We all love you. We all miss you.”

More than four decades after Williams brought Popeye to life on Maltese shores, the image serves as another reminder of the late actor’s lasting connection to the islands.