"You ain't never had a friend like me"-Genie

Robin Williams was a comedian and actor who got his start on the 1978 sitcom Mork and Mindy, and around that same time starred in stand up comedy specials for HBO. In 1987 he starred in Good Morning, Vietnam and earned his first Academy Award nomination. In 1992 he lent his voice to the Disney animated film, Aladdin as the funny, lovable Genie. After the success of Aladdin, he starred in tons of family movies such as Mrs. Doubtfire, Hook, Jumanji, Jack, and Flubber just to name a few. But, it wasn't until the 1997 film, Good Will Hunting that Williams proved that he is not only incredible at making people laugh but he is truly remarkable in serious roles as well. His performance in the film earned him an Academy Award and the realization to many, that there's more to Robin Williams than just jokes. 


I didn't know Robin Williams, nor have I ever met him, but I've been a fan since the first time I watched Aladdin in the movie theater at the age of 8 and couldn't stop laughing at the crazy, hysterical Genie. Til this day, when Mrs. Doubtfire comes on, I still leave the channel on and watch it as if I was 9 years old again sitting at the edge of my seat hoping he doesn't get caught for being a woman nanny. He was an inspiration for so many children in the film Hook when he portrayed Peter Pan. There was not a single character Williams couldn't portray. He was witty, full of energy and always 100% committed to every role he played. 

Robin Williams was just 63 years old when he passed away on Monday August 11, 2014. He is survived by his wife and three children and millions of fans who are devastated by his passing. He was not only an actor, a comedian but a friend to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. He not only raised money for the hospital but also visited one-on-one with patients to make them smile and laugh.  I think more people need to remember how he lived, rather than how he died. 

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