Remembering Robin Williams: A Decade Later, Stories of His Sensitivity and Impact Emerge
Sally Field’s Emotional Revelation
In honor of the 10th anniversary of Robin Williams‘ passing, Sally Field, one of his co-stars in the beloved 1993 film Mrs. Doubtfire, shared a poignant story that highlighted Williams’ profound sensitivity and kindness. Field, now 77, recalled a moment during the filming of Mrs. Doubtfire that revealed a side of Williams the public rarely saw.
While shooting a crucial courtroom scene for the film, Field received a phone call that her father had just passed away from a massive stroke. Despite the overwhelming grief, Field tried to push through and continue working. However, Williams noticed something was amiss. Pulling her aside, he gently inquired if she was okay. Upon learning about her father’s passing, Williams immediately took action to ensure Field had the time and space she needed to grieve.
“He said, ‘Oh my God, we need to get you out here right now,’” Field shared in a recent interview. Williams, using his influence, arranged for the shooting schedule to be adjusted so that Field could leave the set, go home, and make arrangements for her father’s funeral. This act of compassion is just one example of Williams’ deep understanding and care for those around him.
The Magic Behind Mrs. Doubtfire
Mrs. Doubtfire was a film that resonated with audiences worldwide, not just for its humor but for the heartwarming and often poignant moments it portrayed. Much of that magic was due to Williams‘ ability to bring scenes to life with his unique blend of comedy and empathy.
Christopher Columbus, the director of Mrs. Doubtfire, reflected on working with Williams, revealing that the actor was always eager to push the boundaries of a scene. Williams proposed a deal: they would shoot two or three takes as scripted and then, in his words, “we are going to play.” This approach led to some of the most memorable moments in the film, such as the chaotic scene where Williams’ character, Daniel Hillard, tries to switch out of his Mrs. Doubtfire costume just as a social worker arrives. The spontaneity of these unscripted moments kept the cast on their toes, with Field, Pierce Brosnan, and the child actors often unsure of what Williams would do next.
Field noted that her job was to respond naturally to whatever Williams did, making the scenes feel authentic and alive. This improvisational style contributed to the film’s success, turning what was on the page into something much more dynamic and heartfelt.
A Legacy of Kindness and Understanding
Mara Wilson, who played the youngest of the Hillard children in Mrs. Doubtfire, also shared her experiences with Williams, painting a picture of a man who was not only a comedic genius but also deeply compassionate and aware of the emotional needs of those around him.
Wilson recalled a particularly touching moment when she was nine years old, shortly after her mother had passed away. During a table read for What Dreams May Come, Williams approached her with quiet concern, asking how she and her family were doing. He didn’t dwell on the painful details but was there to offer support in a gentle, unobtrusive way. This encounter left a lasting impression on Wilson, who described Williams as “very sweet” and someone who understood how to navigate sensitive situations with care.
Williams’ kindness extended beyond the set. Lisa Jakub, who played the older Hillard daughter, shared that Williams was one of the first people to speak to her openly about mental health issues. His willingness to discuss his struggles helped Jakub feel less alone and more accepting of her own challenges. This openness was not just a personal trait but part of Williams’ broader commitment to helping others, including his work with veterans and his efforts to ensure that production crews hired local veterans as background actors.
Honoring Robin Williams’ Legacy
As the world marks a decade since Robin Williams’ death, these stories remind us of the profound impact he had on those who knew him. Williams was more than just a brilliant comedian and actor; he was a deeply empathetic person who used his influence to support and uplift others in both small, personal ways and through broader, community-focused actions.
The stories shared by Sally Field, Mara Wilson, and Lisa Jakub offer a glimpse into the man behind the roles, a man whose sensitivity and intuition made him not only a beloved entertainer but also a cherished friend and colleague. As we remember Robin Williams, we celebrate not just his incredible talent but the kindness and humanity that defined his life.
Tomorrow marks the 10th anniversary of Robin Williams’ passing, a day that continues to resonate with fans and those who had the privilege of working with him. Through their memories and stories, Williams’ legacy of compassion, creativity, and kindness lives on, reminding us of the indelible mark he left on the world.