Warning: This article discusses topics related to drug addiction and suicide, which may be distressing for some readers.
Matthew Lawrence recently shared his experiences of working with Robin Williams on the film “Mrs. Doubtfire,” highlighting the valuable lessons he learned from the legendary actor both on and off the set.
The 1993 film, which has since been adapted into a musical on London’s West End, features Robin Williams in the role of Daniel, a father striving to stay close to his children following a divorce.
If you haven’t seen the movie yet, it’s a must-watch.
Matthew Lawrence, who portrayed Daniel’s 12-year-old son Chris, was also 12 when he acted in the film.
Now at 45, Lawrence reflects on the six to eight months he spent working with Williams, noting the significant professional and personal lessons he gained from the experience.
During an interview with Entertainment Weekly, following his appearance on The Masked Singer, Lawrence described the experience as “the biggest learning curve anyone can get when it comes to making movies and being an entertainer.”
He praised Williams as “the most brilliant artist” he has ever worked with, even though he has collaborated with other talented individuals.
Lawrence also learned important life lessons about empathy and humanity from Williams, who showed genuine interest in those he worked with, especially in Lawrence’s development as a young actor.
Williams advised the young Lawrence to “not judge until you walk in someone else’s shoes” and demonstrated the compassion one should have for others.
Lawrence explained, “He had the compassion, he had the humility, and he also had these things that he struggled with. He really explained his life to me and really brought me in and taught me not just about in front of the camera, but a lot about behind the camera as well.”
Williams also addressed the issue of substance abuse with Lawrence, sharing insights from his own battles with alcohol and cocaine addiction.
Lawrence recalled Williams openly discussing how substance use negatively impacted his mental functioning.
The young actor remembered Williams advising him to avoid drugs, saying: “If I could go back and tell myself, this is why I’m telling you, don’t put that stuff in your body.”
Lawrence remarked, “I’ll never forget it.”
Robin Williams died by suicide on August 11, 2014. Lawrence shared that he still thinks of Williams every day and hears his voice in his thoughts.
For confidential support and advice about drug addiction, contact American Addiction Centers at (313) 209-9137, available 24/7, or visit their website.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, assistance is available through Mental Health America. You can call or text 988, chat at 988lifeline.org, or text MHA to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line.