Jeff Bridges remembers Robin Williams' humour on 'The Fisher King'
Bridges recallls Williams kept the cast laughing during late-night shoots
Jeff Bridges has reflected on working with the late Robin Williams, remembering how the Oscar-winning actor lifted the mood on the set of The Fisher King with his quick wit and playful humour.
Speaking to Variety, Bridges said Williams would entertain cast and crew during exhausting overnight shoots, describing his co-star as "brilliant" and "amazing" to work with.
Williams kept cast and crew entertained
Bridges recalled that Williams would often sense when everyone was running low on energy during late-night filming.
"We'd be working late nights, we'd all be exhausted," Bridges said, adding that Williams would get "this kind of devilish look on his face" before joking with everyone on set for several minutes.
According to Bridges, director Terry Gilliam encouraged the spontaneous moments rather than calling everyone back to work.
The Fisher King remains a career highlight
Released in 1991, The Fisher King starred Bridges as a self-centred radio host whose life becomes intertwined with Williams' homeless character.
The critically acclaimed film earned more than $72 million worldwide and received five Academy Award nominations, including a Best Actor nomination for Williams.
Bridges pays tribute to late co-star
Bridges also reflected on Williams following the actor's death in August 2014.
At the premiere of The Giver, held the same day Williams died, Bridges described him as a "dear, dear friend" and offered his condolences to the comedian's family.
The following day, Bridges shared a heartfelt social media tribute, calling Williams "a treasure chest of creativity and generosity of spirit."
Actor remembers Williams' free spirit
Bridges also recalled filming an early morning scene with Williams in New York City's Central Park, saying his co-star's carefree personality made every day on set memorable.
"He was just wild and free," Bridges said, adding that Williams' joyful approach to life and work left a lasting impression on everyone around him.