Comedian Bio: Robin Williams

Robin Williams in 2011

Although this Oscar winner was not only a comedian, but also a serious actor, we can't in good consciousness leave him out of this blog. Therefore, we will now discuss Robin Williams, (not to be confused with Robbie Williams).

With over 50 awards won and even more nominations, Robin Williams undeniably has a strong track record. He has played in over 100 films and TV-series and has appeared on stage countless times. Some of his most notable works include Good Will Hunting, which is not a comedy, but it is a very good film, Aladdin, where he plays the hilarious Genie, and his most recent television series The Crazy Ones.

In The Crazy Ones, Williams played the advertising genius Simon Roberts. He runs a powerful advertising company together with his daughter Sydney. Sydney and Simon are opposites in nearly everything: where he is unpredictable and somewhat childlike, she is focused, organized and eager to make a name for herself. She is however often parenting her dad, which she resents to a certain level, but as her dad is as good as he is, she accepts it. The series is still in its first season and has already received its first award and a further two nominations. The pilot was the best viewed pilot in the season and rightly so.

In general Robin Williams was known for his skill at portraying an optimistic character with a lot of goofy humour, both visual and verbal. His work often involves a lot of improvisation, which results in hilarious material. His work is inspired by his idol Jonathan Winters, who was also known for his

Robin Williams in 1979

improvisational skills.

Besides his acting work Williams is known for his extensive contributions to charity. He started the Windfall fund together with his former wife and he has collaborated with Comic Relief on countless occasions. He has also donated to the rebuilding efforts in Canterbury after the devastating earthquake of 2010. Furthermore he has performed for US troops several times.

His recent death shocked the world. Everybody commented on it, from US President Barack Obama to the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, to everybody on the internet and in the media. His death also sparked several debates on suicide, its treatment and the media coverage of celebrity deaths. He was mourned worldwide, and is still missed by many.

Robin Williams was one of the few truly multi-talented actors of our age, who will certainly be remembered for years to come. A great loss to the world and comedy, he really deserves the acclaim he received.