Amanda Johnson 
Most of us have seen at least one movie starring the incomparable Robin Williams in our lifetime. So, it comes as no surprise that he was named the best comedic actor ever in a recent Ranker poll.
His acting credits are expansive and go back 40 years! He was a Dad willing to go to any lengths to see his kids in Mrs. Doubtfire. He was a grown up version of Peter Pan in Hook. An insightful and caring therapist in Good Will Hunting, and the list goes on and on.
His numerous roles in television and films, as well as his stand up comedy made him a household name decades ago. He was a lovable alien in Mork and Mindy who had us all saying “nanu nanu” in the late 70’s/early 80’s. In the 80s he also brought us comedy gold in Good Morning, Vietnam.
The 90’s brought us his most beloved roles, the aforementioned Mrs. Doubtfire and the voice of the Genie in Aladdin. That decade also saw him an win an Oscar for his performance in Good Will Hunting.
He excelled in dramatic roles as well as comedic ones, but most people loved him for his comedy. He had the kind delivery that would have tears running down your face! His timing was impeccable, and his physical comedy was second to none. You could tell that he loved what he did, and would do anything to make his audience laugh.
His appearances on late-night talk shows, such as the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson are some of his most memorable moments. Johnny even asked him to be the last comedian on the show before his retirement. What an honor! David letterman also had a huge soft spot for the late comedian. He had Williams on as the first guest after the writers Guild strike.
Robin Williams was also one of the dedicated performers who made many trips overseas to entertain US military troops. He worked hard to put on great shows that would take their minds off of what they were going through even if just for a few minutes.
Sadly, we lost this amazing man too soon on August 11, 2014. He took his own life after battling with depression for some time. His wife said he had been diagnosed with early stages of Parkinson’s disease, which he had not shared with the public yet. An autopsy after his death revealed that he was actually suffering from lewy body dementia and had been misdiagnosed.
I have no doubt that if he had not fallen ill, he would have provided many more decades of laughs and touching moments for the world to enjoy. His impressive body of work leaves no doubt in my mind that the correct choice was made when he was named the best comedic actor of all time. I’ve been watching him my whole life, and will forever. Rest in peace, Mr. Williams. Thank you for the laughs.
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