The YouTube community is mourning the loss of Dr. Robert Murray-Smith, a celebrated inventor and creator who took his own life shortly after posting a farewell video on September 26, 2025. The 62-year-old, known for his engaging content on his channel Thinking and Tinkering, scheduled the video to be released the day after his death, leaving his 579,000 subscribers shocked by the tragic news.
In the video, Dr. Murray-Smith expressed gratitude to his followers, stating that the time had come to “call it adieu while we’re all really happy.” He did not hint at his intentions, yet his brother, Dave Smith, later confirmed that Dr. Murray-Smith had died by suicide, revealing the emotional struggles that contributed to this heart-wrenching decision.
Dr. Murray-Smith’s channel showcased a variety of innovative DIY projects, including off-grid batteries, furnaces, and centrifuges, aimed at empowering viewers to create their own gadgets. His content attracted millions of views and encouraged a hands-on approach to technology and innovation. Throughout his 11-year YouTube career, he became a source of inspiration for many, providing valuable insights and practical knowledge.
Despite the joy he brought to his audience, Dr. Murray-Smith faced profound personal challenges. Following the death of his wife, Patti, two years ago, he struggled with grief and declining health. In a later video, Dave Smith explained that his brother had been dealing with significant physical pain, which exacerbated his mental health struggles.
The community’s response to the news of his passing has been overwhelmingly supportive. Fans expressed their sorrow and appreciation for the impact Dr. Murray-Smith had on their lives. One follower commented, “God bless you, Robert! Your spirit shines bright,” while another reflected on the end of an era, stating, “You’ve touched the lives of millions, and that’s an awesome feat.”
Dave Smith emphasized the importance of discussing mental health, particularly among men, stating, “Men typically find it next to impossible to talk about their feelings, particularly when life isn’t going quite as well as we might want.” In honor of his brother, the family plans to raise funds for the charity Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), which focuses on supporting mental health initiatives.
The video announcing Dr. Murray-Smith’s death has garnered over 203,000 views, with thousands of comments pouring in from grieving fans. Many shared personal stories about how his tutorials had positively impacted their lives, with one viewer stating that Dr. Murray-Smith’s guidance helped them create heaters while homeless.
As the YouTube community reflects on Dr. Murray-Smith’s legacy, his family is committed to ensuring that his work continues to inspire others. Dave Smith mentioned plans for a compilation video featuring some of his brother’s best content, allowing fans to remember him through the invaluable knowledge he shared.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, support is available. The Samaritans can be reached 24 hours a day at 116 123 or via email at [email protected]. Additionally, CALM offers assistance at 0800 585858 or through their webchat at thecalmzone.net from 17:00 to 00:00 daily.
