Robin Williams: A career in pictures
Robin Williams sadly passed away at his home in California yesterday (August 11).
From his breakout role in Mork and Mindy to his Oscar-winning turn in the quietly powerful drama Good Will Hunting, Williams was a much-loved star of film and TV, bringing a human touch to even the most surreal characters.
His tireless comic energy and intense commitment to his performances have entertained millions, and here at Attitude HQ today, we’ve been remembering some of his most iconic roles. Have a look at some of our personal highlights below.
Mork and Mindy (1978-1982)
The role that catapulted Williams into the spotlight, Mork and Mindy saw him play socially unaware alien Mork, who is sent to earth to observe human behaviour, and then becomes the roommate and, eventually, husband of Mindy McConnell (Pam Dawber). Williams was apparently so good at improvising jokes that the writers soon started leaving spaces in the script for him to work his comedic magic.
Dead Poets Society (1989)
Williams played an English teacher who taught his students how to seize the day in this critically-acclaimed drama. As he introduced his pupils to poetry through unconventional methods, his character John Keating became one of the big screen’s best-loved professors.
Hook (1991)
The story of ‘the boy who wouldn’t grow up’ was flipped on its head in this live-action sequel, which introduced us to a grown up Peter Pan (Williams) who had forgotten all about Neverland and his Lost Boys. Equal parts hilarious and moving, Williams threw himself into the role with an exuberant glee.
Aladdin (1992)
It may have “only” been a voice role, but his much-loved turn as the Genie is a testament to how much life Williams could bring to the screen, even without being seen himself. Just try not to get emotional when Aladdin uses one final wish to free him.
Mrs Doubtfire (1993)
Perhaps the most iconic of Williams’ films, Mrs. Doubtfire was a slapstick family comedy with a big heart. Devastated by his impending divorce and the loss of custody over his children, Williams’ character drags up to become the kids’ new nanny, with hysterical consequences.
Jumanji (1995)
Starring alongside Bonnie Tyler and a tweenage Kirsten Dunst, Williams portrayed Alan Parish: a man who spent 26 years trapped inside the perilous world of a seemingly harmless boardgame. This oddly dark family adventure still challenges its PG rating today – there are several genuinely frightening moments.
The Birdcage (1996)
Williams played Armand Goldman, the gay father of a young groom-to-be, in this brilliant adaptation of Franco-Italian farce La Cage Aux Folles. When his son announces that his high society in-laws are coming to visit, Goldman must attempt to hide his sexuality, the lively drag bar he owns and his partner Albert – who happens to be the club’s star drag queen. A gay classic.
Good Will Hunting (1997)
His performance in this intelligent drama won Williams an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, and it’s not hard to see why: his portrayal of the uncompromising therapist who takes on Matt Damon’s troubled genius is enthralling from start to finish.
One Hour Photo (2002)
Williams stars as a lonely photo technician who becomes increasingly obsessed with a family whose photos he often develops. An unusually dark turn for Williams, One Hour Photo is a must-watch.
Night at the Museum (2006)
A hugely enjoyable ensemble comedy, Night at the Museum sees Williams play a Thedore Roosevelt statue that springs to life after sundown. It was never going to win awards, but the film’s carefree slapstick fantasy ensured it has returned for two more sequels (one to be released later this year).
The Crazy Ones (2013-2014)
Williams’ long-awaited return to the small screen, The Crazy Ones was a slick, big-hearted sitcom that paired his screwball ad exec with Sarah Michelle Gellar as his tightly-wound, long-suffering daughter. Though the series improved in leaps and bounds across its first season, it was cancelled before its time by US network CBS in May. But before it took its final bow, the show managed to sneak in one last surprise: a heart-warming cameo from William’s Mork And Mindy co-star Pam Dawber.
> Click here for a selection of celebrity tributes to the late Robin Williams