“You’re going to let everybody out now”: Robin Williams Threatened $262M Movie Director to Protect Kirsten Dunst and Bradley Pierce After Knowing They Were Overworked as Child Actors
Kind, hilarious, talented, and an outright joy to be around, Robin Williams was all these things and so much more. He, unfortunately, passed away on August 11, 2014, by suicide. However, whether it is because of his unbeatable talent or the kind of person he was, Robin Williams’ memory is still fresh in our minds and he continues to live on in our hearts. And although it has almost been a decade, the stories of his life are still floating around.
One such anecdote was recalled by his Jumanji co-star, Bradley Pierce, who was a child actor at the time. He recalled how Robin Williams was the only one to stand up for the well-being of the two child actors on the set, him and Kirsten Dunst. While the two were being overworked by the producers, Robin Williams was not going to stand it any longer, no matter how much it cost.
Robin Williams Stood Up For Jumanji Child Actors
In an interview with CBCListen, Bradley Pierce, who played Peter Shepherd in Jumanji, recalled shooting a particularly difficult scene for the film. The scene in question is when the board game sets Monsoon into motion. Why was this scene difficult for Pierce? Well, he had to deal with filming in water and he couldn’t breathe properly because of his makeup. After all, he was dressed up like a monkey!
“I couldn’t breathe through my nose,” said Pierce who added that the shoot of that scene went on for a total of eight days. He also stated that it was “draining” and quite tiring for him and Kirsten Dunst. However, even though the kids were having a tough time, the producers wanted them to work more than their pre-decided hours.
“Children can only be on set for a number of hours. The producers had approached our parents and said, ‘Is there any way we can do a bit of overtime to get it done.’ That’s not uncommon at all in the industry because it literally saves $100,000 plus to do that extra half hour rather than a whole day.”
When Robin Williams heard about this, he was quick to tell director, Joe Johnston, that nothing of the sort will happen.
“He said, ‘No, we are not doing any extra time. You’re going to let everybody out now and we’re going to come back next week.’ For all the dollars that would have cost, nobody would have stood up the way he did. In addition to being warm, generous and kind, he was also very protective.”
So, there you have it. Even after all these years of Williams’ passing, those close to him still remember him and his kindness vividly. He sure has left a legacy behind which extends beyond his colorful career!
Robin Williams’ Children Pay a Tribute to Their Father
On his eighth death anniversary, Zak Williams and Zelda Williams each posted something in memory of their father on Twitter. His son, whom he had with Valerie Velardi, posted a photo of Williams’ from his younger days stating that he was “incredibly kind and joyful” and that he “deeply misses” him.
On the other hand, his daughter with Marsha Garces Williams posted a quote from popular author Haruki Murakami as well as a list of suicide prevention resources. She stated that she is not asking for much but that people be gentle to their hearts.
No amount of time can fill the void in the hearts of Williams’ close ones but they will always remember him for the wonderful person he was. His legacy will live long!
