Robbie Williams and Take That start trending on Twitter after confusion over death of actor Robin Williams

Fans of the band mistake the singer to have died

Robbie Williams performs during his 'Swing Both Ways' World Tour (Getty Images)

Robbie Williams fans accidentally thought he had died this morning, confusing his name with the late comedian Robin Williams who found dead yesterday (11 August) in an apparent suicide.

“Take That” consequently began trending on Twitter as fans began discussing what they thought was the singer’s untimely death.

The passing of Robin Williams, who was known for his roles in Good Will Hunting, Dead Poets Society, Hook and Mrs Doubtfire, was confirmed by his wife, Susan Schneider, in a public statement yesterday evening. The cause of death remains under investigation.

“This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings,” she wrote.

“I am utterly heartbroken.”

But the news still managed to confuse some members of the public, who sent the remaining members of Take That their well wishes.

The top echelons of Hollywood have paid tribute to Robin Williams today, including Kevin Spacey, Steven Spielberg and Ben Stiller. Barack Obama also celebrated the life of the comedic actor:

"He made us laugh. He made us cry,” said Obama in a statement.

“He gave his immeasurable talent freely and generously to those who needed it most - from our troops stationed abroad to the marginalised on our own streets. The Obama family offers our condolences to Robin's family, his friends, and everyone who found their voice and their verse thanks to Robin Williams."