The passing of Robin Williams caused me to think about several topics. These thoughts are what came to mind as I heard the news.
Robin Williams (Curtsy of HBO.com)
First, a momentary disbelief then I assumed it was a false report. A rumor. Next I thought it was a unintentional drug overdose (which I rethought later on as you'll read). He was so young and I was expect many more public performances whether it was TV, movies, as a lead or simply a guest appearance.
Second, I reflected on memorable performances and the entertainment I receive from him. The voice of Aladdin, Mork & Mindy, Good Will Hunting, Good Morning Vietnam, Patch Adams, Bicentennial Man, and most recently (I thought it should be cancelled) The Crazy Ones.
Third, for me Robin Williams falls into a very small category of actors who start in "stupid comedy" and successfully transitioned into "more series" roles. The only other actor that comes to mind is Steve Martin, Tom Hanks and Will Smith. Maybe Dan Aykroyd and Mattew Broderick (for his Broadway work). Certainly not Chevy Chase, Bill Murray, Jim Carey, Tim Allen or John Goodman even thought they've done some mainstream/serious roles.
I ended by dwelling on this thought - how did Robin Williams and Steve Martin make the transition? I naively assumed their early work was a result of drugs and they "grew out of it". I certainly no longer think of them, Will Smith and Dan Aykroyd as drug influenced, but I can't say exactly why.
I can say I find their serious and non-comedic roles as enjoyable and maybe more. Is all this just a reflection of my aging?