‘There’s not a day that goes by when Matthew Lawrence doesn’t hear Robin Williams’ voice’…
Warning: This article contains a discussion of dr*g addiction and suic*de, which some readers may find distressing.
Robin Williams taught Matthew Lawrence important lessons behind the camera while working together on Mrs. Doubtfire.
The beloved 1993 film, which has since been transformed into a musical in London’s West End, features the iconic Robin Williams as Daniel, a devoted father fighting to maintain a close relationship with his children following his divorce from their mother.
I won’t spoil it, but you should have seen the movie already.
Daniel’s 12-year-old son Chris was played by Matthew Lawrence, who was 12 when the film was released.
At 45 years old, Lawrence has opened up about his six- to eight-month collaboration with Williams. He reflects on the valuable lessons he gained in his professional life and the insights he picked up from the star when the cameras weren’t rolling.
During an interview with Entertainment Weekly, the actor explained that making the film was the most significant learning curve anyone can experience.
According to Lawrence, Williams is ‘the best artist’ he has ever worked with and has worked with some greats.
In addition to his craft, he gained invaluable insights into the essence of humanity. Every individual he collaborated with was treated as a valuable investment, but Williams’ commitment to the young actor was particularly strong.
Williams shared valuable advice with the 12-year-old, emphasizing the importance of empathy by saying, “You shouldn’t judge others until you’ve experienced their struggles.” He truly exemplified the compassion he spoke about, showing how crucial it is to understand and support one another.
Robin Williams in 2007, and Matthew Lawrence in 2023
Then Lawrence continued, “He had compassion, humility, and also these things which he struggled with. He really explained his life to me and taught me about both the in front of the camera as well as the behind the camera.”
Williams also spoke about ‘substances’ to Lawrence, saying he’ll never forget one thing he’ll ‘never forget’ – having previously spoken about his @lcohol and coc@ine addiction.
In an interview with the actor, Williams described ‘how substances really pushed his brain to not function properly.’
Clockwise from top: Robin Williams, Matthew Lawrence, Mara Wilson, Lisa Jakub for ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’
“If I could go back in time and tell myself, this is why I’m telling you, don’t put that stuff in your body.” Lawrence recalled Williams telling him: “If I could go back in time and tell myself, don’t put that stuff in your body.”
Lawrence said, “I’ll never forget it.”
Lawrence commented that ‘not a day goes by that he does not hear his voice’ after Williams committed suic!de on August 11, 2014.