Robin Williams Had It Guaranteed in His Contract That Homeless People Would Get Jobs in His Films: “I Never Watched His Movie the Same Way After That”
Robin Williams was an incredibly talented actor and comedian who used his fame to help others. He was big-hearted and the proof is a particular clause in his contracts.
Robin Williams passed away almost ten years ago, but many fans still miss him. This is due to the unforgettable roles he played, moving, inspiring or comforting people. However, the memory of the artist lasts not only among fans, family or friends.
His coworkers know well how big-hearted this actor was. Recently, Sally Field, a co-star, revealed that after the death of her father, it was Robin Williams who arranged a day off for her so she could mourn her loss peacefully. But the artist also helped complete strangers.
It turns out that Robin Williams had clause in his contracts requiring that homeless people be hired in films he was involved in, for roles like extras. This gave many people a chance to work, make some money and reentry into society. Filmmaker Brian Lord's words revealed how empathetic Williams was.
Years ago I learned a very cool thing about Robin Williams, and I couldn’t watch a movie of his afterward without thinking of it. I never actually booked Robin Williams for an event, but I came close enough that his office sent over his rider.
When I got Robin Williams’ rider, I was very surprised by what I found. He actually had a requirement that for every single event or film he did, the company hiring him also had to hire a certain number of homeless people and put them to work.
I never watched a Robin Williams movie the same way after that. […] I wonder how many production companies continued the practice into their next non-Robin Williams project, as well as how many people got a chance at a job and the pride of earning an income, even temporarily, from his actions.
He was a great multiplier of his impact. Let’s hope that impact lives on without him. Thanks, Robin Williams – not just for laughs, but also for a cool example.
Lord added that he is convinced that Robin Williams also spent his own time and money helping people in need. Now, fans, knowing what a wonderful person the actor was, will surely miss him even more.
