Robin Williams - When the Laughter Stops 1951-2014 (17 page)

As news of Robin Williams’ shocking death spread around the world, Broadway’s lights were dimmed and Times Square paid tribute to the star.

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Pam Dawber and Williams shot to fame starring in the popular show
Mork and Mindy.
Williams’ typically zany performances – here seen in a woman’s bathrobe, furry hat and sunglasses – showcased both his acting and his comedy skills.

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The actor was married to Valerie Velardi for a decade but the couple struggled to maintain their private relationship while Williams’ career was so public.

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A Golden Globes regular, Williams was respected by both his peers and the critics, winning five individual awards through the years, culminating in the Cecil B DeMille award – one of the most coveted in the industry – for ‘outstanding contributions to the world of entertainment’.

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Alongside then-newcomers Affleck and Damon;
Good Will Hunting
– recognised as one of Williams’ finest performances of all-time – won three Oscars.

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No matter what else may have been happening in Williams’ life, his family – and especially his three children – were always at the front of his mind; not least because of the comedic potential fatherhood brought to his stand-up act.

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Never one to take himself too seriously, Williams is ‘gunged’ for Nickelodeon in 2006

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Christopher Reeve – Williams’ one-time schoolmate and great friend – said that it was the actor’s antics that cheered him after his tragic accident. They were ‘closer than brothers’ and his death affected Williams deeply.

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An improvisational genius, Williams often came up with his own lines for his movie roles, whether as the Genie in
Aladdin
, or in his breakthrough performance in the brilliant
Good Morning, Vietnam.

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A stellar cast performed alongside Williams in the animated comedy
Happy Feet
, one of the more successful films of his later career.

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A chat-show favourite, Williams signs autographs before appearing once again on his old friend David Letterman’s
Late Show
in 2013.

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Truly comfortable live on-stage, Williams’ off-screen talents were recognised at The Comedy Awards in 2012 where he received The Stand-Up Icon award.

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