Visit Al Jazeera English
Display mobile navigation Display mobile search bar
Al Jazeera America Al Jazeera America
Sections
U.S. International Economy Technology Science Environment Sports Culture Human Rights
Trending
Election 2016 Immigration Drugs Special Coverage
Search Form

Photos: Remembering Robin Williams

August 12, 2014 10:24AM ET

A look back at the diverse career of a beloved comedian

Topics:
Culture
View comments
Robin Williams
Born in Chicago, raised in Detroit, Robin Williams emerged from the comedy scene in Los Angeles in the 1970s, where he gained attention headlining at clubs like the Improv and the Comedy Store, above. Wynn Miller / Time Life Pictures / Getty Images
Robin Williams
Williams’ first break was being cast as Mork, the irrepressible alien who moves in with a single Colorado woman played by Pam Dawber, above, in “Mork and Mindy”. In large part because of William’s madcap performance, the show gained instant popularity. Paramount / Everett Collection
Robin Williams
The big time brought the new star to the stage at “Saturday Night Live,” where he was photographed with his wife Valerie after a taping in 1978, above. Ron Galella / Wireimage / Getty Images
Robin Williams
Film roles quickly followed, including the lead as an armed forces radio DJ in “Good Morning Vietnam,” 1987. Everett Collection
Robin Williams
Williams’ diverse talents at mimicry made for a hilarious turn as a Scottish nanny in 1993’s “Mrs. Doubtfire.” 20th Century Fox / Everett Collection
Robin Williams
Williams won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor his portrayal of a psychologist helping the brilloiant but conflicted young man played by Matt Damon in “Good Will Hunting,” 1997. Miramax / Everett Collection
Robin Williams
The actor’s broad range led to take on more sinister roles, like the troubled film technician in 2002’s “One Hour Photo.” 20th Century Fox / Everett Collection
Robin Williams
In the 2006 comedy blockbuster, Night at the Museum, Williams played Theodore Roosevelt brought back to life. He reprised the role in a third installment of the series, to be released in December of 2014. 20th Century Fox / Everett Collection
Robin Williams
Williams’ untimely death brought encomiums from performers and politicians all across the spectrum, including President Obama. He was 63, his death the result of an apparent suicide. Alessia Pierdomenico / Reuters