Robin Williams

Robin Williams

ABOUT

Robin McLaurin Williams, born on July 21, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, was a luminary in the world of entertainment. Renowned for his improvisational skills and distinctive voice work, Williams brought joy and laughter to millions worldwide through his roles in television, film, and stand-up comedy. His unique ability to blend humor with heartfelt emotion allowed him to transcend traditional boundaries of comedy and drama, earning him numerous accolades including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "Good Will Hunting" (1997).

BEFORE FAME

Williams' foray into the world of performance began in the early 1970s when he enrolled at Claremont Men's College to study political science, but soon left to pursue a career in acting. He attended the College of Marin in California and later gained a scholarship to the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City, where he was among only two students accepted into John Houseman's advanced program that year—the other being Christopher Reeve. Williams honed his craft under the tutelage of distinguished instructors and soon found success on the stand-up comedy circuit.

TRIVIA

Robin Williams was known for his rapid-fire improvisation and ability to create memorable characters on the fly. Aside from his acclaimed film roles, he was a beloved voice actor, providing the voice of the Genie in Disney's "Aladdin" (1992), a role that showcased his extraordinary versatility. His performance was so iconic that the animation team reportedly had to significantly expand the Genie’s screen time to accommodate Williams’ brilliance. Williams was also involved in numerous philanthropic activities, including supporting the United Service Organizations (USO), St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and co-founding the Windfall Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to raising funds for a variety of charitable causes.

FAMILY LIFE

Robin Williams married Valerie Velardi in 1978, with whom he had his son, Zachary Pym ("Zak") Williams. The couple divorced in 1988. In 1989, he married Marsha Garces, who had been a nanny to his first son. They had two children together, Zelda Rae Williams and Cody Alan Williams. The couple separated in 2008 and eventually divorced in 2010. In 2011, Williams married Susan Schneider, a graphic designer. Williams’ relationships with his children were often an inspiration for his work, and he frequently mentioned them in interviews, describing his role as a father as one of the most important aspects of his life.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Throughout his career, Robin Williams collaborated with numerous prominent figures in the entertainment industry. He frequently worked with directors like Chris Columbus, who helmed "Mrs. Doubtfire" (1993) and "Bicentennial Man" (1999), and Gus Van Sant, who directed "Good Will Hunting" (1997). His friendship with Billy Crystal and Whoopi Goldberg led to the creation of the Comic Relief fundraising specials, which raised millions of dollars for homeless assistance programs. Williams' unparalleled influence and the relationships he fostered within the industry are a testament to his remarkable talent and generous spirit.

Robin Williams’ indelible mark on the world of comedy and drama continues to inspire and entertain generations. His legacy is one of laughter, compassion, and a boundless capacity for connecting with audiences through the universal language of humor and humanity.