Sally Field Shares Touching Robin Williams Story from ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ Set

This year marks a decade since the tragic passing of beloved comedian Robin Williams. In 2014, Williams took his own life after battling mental health issues and receiving a recent Parkinson’s diagnosis. His death left a void in the world of entertainment, but his legacy continues through his extensive body of work in film and television. Many who had the privilege of working with him have shared their stories, celebrating his brilliance and humanity. Among them is his Mrs. Doubtfire co-star, Sally Field, who recently recounted a touching moment with Williams for the first time in a tribute edition of Vanity Fair.

Field and Williams played a divorced couple, Daniel and Miranda, in the 1993 comedy. The story follows Daniel, who disguises himself as a British nanny to stay close to his children after the split. During the filming of a challenging scene, Field received a life-altering phone call that she has never publicly discussed until now.

“I was in the camper outside of the courtroom where we were shooting the divorce scene,” Field recalled. “My father had a stroke a few years before and was in a nursing facility. I got a phone call from the doctor saying my father had passed due to a massive stroke.” The doctor asked Field if she wanted her father put on a resuscitator. “I said ‘No, he did not want that. Just let him go. And please lean down and say, ‘Sally says goodbye.'” Overwhelmed with grief, Field tried her best to continue acting without breaking down.

Robin Williams noticed something was off and came over to check on her. “Are you okay?” he asked. Initially, Field said she was fine, but Williams sensed she wasn’t. When she finally confided in him, she said, “No, I’m not, Robin. My father just passed.”

Williams immediately responded with utmost sensitivity and concern. “Oh my God, we need to get you out of here right now,” he told her. Thanks to Williams’ quick actions, Field was allowed to leave the set early. “I could go back to my house, call my brother, and make arrangements,” she explained. The rest of the day’s shooting proceeded without her.

This unshared side of Williams—a man sensitive and deeply intuitive—left a lasting impression on Field. She was grateful for his empathy and support during one of the most challenging moments of her life. It’s these personal anecdotes that paint a fuller picture of Williams, not just as an extraordinary actor and comedian but also as a compassionate and understanding human being.

Field’s story is a poignant reminder of the depth of Williams’ character, a side many may not have known but one that significantly impacted those who did. Her recollections contribute to the rich tapestry of memories that keep Robin Williams’ legacy alive, even as we mark ten years since his untimely death.

Source: Vanity Fair