His laughter and lunacy brought joy to millions. But it could not cure the depths of depression and addictions to alcohol and drugs. From his landmark debut as Mork from Ork to his brilliant portrayal of Mrs. Doubtfire , Robin helped us cope with the world by giving us time to laugh, to soothe our own troubles. His rubber faced antics in Popeye, his black humor in the World According to Garp. Inspirational teacher John Keating in the Dead Poets Society.
How many of us have tried to imitate the scream, “Good Morning Vietnam!” My first experience meeting him was a night in LA, at The Comedy Store. As I stood in line waiting to get in, this quiet man stood outside. We spoke for a while, not as a comedian and audience, but as two people conversing about normal life. He seemed almost shy, a shyness that melted away as he got on stage and buffeted us with his improve humor for 1 1/2 hours. You see he wasn’t scheduled to perform, he just showed up. Maybe to hone his razor sharp comedic responses or maybe just to be where he felt at home, on stage.
He was Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor three times. He finally captured the coveted statue, the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Good Will Hunting. He received two Emmy Awards, four Golden Globes, two Screen Actors Guild Awards and five Grammy Awards. Sadly in the end, I wish there was someone who could have reached into his depression and pull him back to us, back to this crazy world that he helped us cope with. I can’t help but think if there was something someone could have done. Could someone have suggested he buy CBD oil, or “CBD olie kopen” as they say in Holland? Could someone have encouraged him to talk about his feelings? I guess we will never know. Rest in Peace, Robin Williams and thank you for sharing your gifts with us.