5 Robin Williams TV shows and movies that define the comedy icon's on-screen prowess

American actor and comedian Robin Williams was widely recognized for his comedic and improvisational talents. He portrayed a diverse array of characters in various comedy and drama films and shows, and even after his passing in 2014, he remains in the hearts of millions of fans.

Despite his status as a comedian who brought joy to many, Robin Williams had a tragic ending when he took his own life at age 63. According to his wife, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and was struggling with anxiety, depression, and paranoia, which ultimately led to his decision to end his life suicide.

Robin Williams first made a big impression with the show Mork & Mindy, a spin-off of Happy Days. After appearing in an episode of the original show, Williams impressed both the creators and viewers so much that the spin-off was created, with Pam Dawber co-starring alongside him.

Williams worked on numerous outstanding projects throughout his life, and now let's take a look at five of his performances that justify the hype surrounding him as a comedic actor.

Disclaimer: This article contains the writer's opinion. Please let us know in the comments which movies or shows you think should have made the cut.

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5 Robin Williams TV shows and movies that show his true potential

Mork & Mindy

Running from 1978 to 1982, Mork & Mindy is one of the most impactful projects in Williams’ career, as it was this show that established his reputation as a comedy actor. The show was written in a way that allowed Williams’ improvisations on his character’s behavior and dialogue, and it resonated extremely well with the audience.

It was such a successful show that at its peak, Mork & Mindy drew a weekly audience of sixty million viewers. The show essentially turned Williams into a superstar and remains one of the best performances of his career.

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Good Morning, Vietnam

In 1987, Robin Williams portrayed an Armed Forces Radio Service (AFRS) DJ in Good Morning, Vietnam, a film that falls within the American war comedy genre. His character proves to be very popular with the troops, but his superiors seem to dislike him because of his irreverent attitude and tendencies.

In this role, Williams also did a great deal of improvising, which ultimately led to him winning the Academy Award for Best Actor. He also received the American Comedy Award for Funniest Actor in a Motion Picture (Leading Role) for the same film, along with various other honors.

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Dead Poets Society

Another milestone in Robin Williams’s career is his portrayal of John Keating in the 1989 film Dead Poets Society. Williams played the role of the new English teacher who arrives at the elite boarding school, Welton Academy, and inspires the students through his teaching.

Williams did an exceptional job of depicting a teacher who understood the students and knew what it felt like to educate a group of impressionable minds. The film was nominated for multiple Academy Awards and other honors, winning several of them.

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Mrs. Doubtfire

In 1993, Robin Williams starred in Mrs. Doubtfire, a comedy-drama film based on the 1987 novel Madame Doubtfire by Anne Fine. Williams played a double role here as he portrayed both Daniel Hillard and Mrs. Euphegenia Doubtfire.

The roles showcased his versatility as an actor, as he played a male and female character with equal ease. He brought the character of Mrs. Euphegenia Doubtfire to life, the housekeeper in disguise who chose this way just to spend some time with the children.

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The Birdcage

The last film on the list is the 1996 comedy The Birdcage. Adapted from the 1978 French film La Cage aux Folles, it starred Robin Williams and Nathan Lane as a gay couple whose son is about to marry the daughter of a conservative senator.

Williams delivered a fantastic portrayal of Armand Goldman, the owner of a Miami drag club. His performance highlighted both the flamboyance and the humanity of his character, making his role in the film particularly memorable.

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