Career Overview and Early Life
Robin Williams (1951–2014) was an American actor and comedian known for rapid-fire improvisation, physical comedy, and both stand-up and character work. He rose to fame in the 1970s as a stand-up comic, then gained wide recognition for the TV series Mork & Mindy (1978–1982) and the film breakout Good Morning, Vietnam (1987). His Wikipedia entry emphasizes a career marked by improvisational energy, emotional range in dramatic and comedic roles, and a distinctive, vocal performing style.
- Born: July 21, 1951, Chicago, Illinois, United States
- Died: August 11, 2014 (aged 63), Paradise Cay, California, United States
- Education: Claremont Men’s College (attended)
Notable Film and Television Work
Williams’s filmography spans animation, drama, and comedy. Wikipedia organizes his work by major releases and recurring television roles. He won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in Good Will Hunting (1997) and received multiple nominations for films including Dead Poets Society (1989), The Fisher King (1991), and Mrs. Doubtfire (1993). On television, he starred in Mork & Mindy and made guest appearances that further showcased his range.
Selected Film Highlights
| Year | Title | Role | Award/Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1987 | Good Morning, Vietnam | Adrian Cronauer | Breakout performance |
| 1997 | Good Will Hunting | Sean Maguire | Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor |
| 1993 | Mrs. Doubtfire | Daniel Hillard | Iconic comedy role |
| 1998 | Armageddon | ("Franklin Canyon”)NASA psychiatrist | Box-office highlight |
| 2009 | Up | Russell “Russell” (voice) | Academy Award for Best Animated Feature |
Awards and Recognition
According to his Wikipedia page, Williams received an Academy Award, six Grammy Awards (notably for comedy albums), two Emmy Awards, and a Golden Globe. He was honored with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, reflecting broad recognition across music, television, and film.
Personal Life and Health
Williams was married three times: first to Valerie Velardi (1978–1988), then to Marsha Garces (1989–2010), and finally to Susan Schneider (2011–2014). He had two children with Garces and one with Schneider. Wikipedia notes his struggles with depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. In his later years, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, which he disclosed publicly in 2014.
Death and Legacy
Robin Williams died on August 11, 2014, from suicide due to asphyxia. The Wikipedia entry contextualizes his death within his documented mental health challenges. His legacy endures through his influential stand-up specials, such as Reality...What a Concept, and acclaimed performances in films that remain staples of comedy and drama. Tributes from peers and institutions underscore his impact on improvisational comedy and expressive screen acting.
Comparison at a Glance
| Aspect | Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Birth Date | July 21, 1951 | Wikipedia (sourced) |
| Oscar Win | Good Will Hunting (1997) | Academy Awards database |
| Grammy Wins | 6 (including Lifetime Achievement) | Recording Academy |
| Cause of Death | Asphyxia (suicide) | Coroner report cited by Wikipedia |
| Known For | Improvisation, Mork & Mindy, Good Will Hunting | Critical consensus and citations |
Quick Facts Snapshot
- Profession: Actor, comedian
- Known for: Improvisation, dramatic and comedic roles
- Notable works: Good Will Hunting, Mrs. Doubtfire, Good Morning, Vietnam, Up
- Awards: 1 Oscar, 6 Grammys, 2 Emmys, 1 Golden Globe
- Health: Parkinson’s disease, prior mental health challenges
Conclusion
Robin Williams’s Wikipedia profile presents a comprehensive view of a performer celebrated for versatility, wit, and emotional depth. It documents major career milestones, accolades, personal context, and the circumstances of his death, providing a factual, sourced reference for ongoing public interest. The entry remains a central resource for understanding his influence on comedy and film.