Robin Williams in rehab

Robin Williams has checked into rehab to be treated for alcoholism.The 55-year-old actor, known for his heavy drinking in his youth, has fallen off the wagon after being sober for 20 years.His publicist Mara Buxbaum revealed Williams had started drinking again and decided to take "proactive measures" to stop himself.In a statement released yesterday (09.08.06), she said: "Robin found himself drinking again and has decided to take proactive measures to deal with this for his own well-being and the well-being of his family."He looks forward to returning to work later this year to support his upcoming film releases."It is not yet known which rehab centre Williams is receiving treatment in, or how long he is expected to stay.The comic star famously incorporated jokes about his excessive drinking into his stand-up comedy routines in the 70s, and has never made a secret of his struggle with alcohol.

Williams - who won an Oscar for his role in the critically acclaimed 1997 movie 'Good Will Hunting' - is involved in three new films coming out this year.

He stars in 'Man of the Year', which is due for release in October, provides the voice for an animated penguin in 'Happy Feet', out in November, and co-stars with Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson in 'Night at the Museum', released in December.