Sally Field Says She Didn’t Find Robin Williams Very Funny When They Made “Mrs. Doubtfire”

In a recent interview, renowned actress Sally Field shared a humorous yet surprising anecdote from the set of the beloved 1993 film, *Mrs. Doubtfire*. Field, now 79, recalled how her stoic demeanour during filming perplexed the late Robin Williams, one of the film’s stars and a legendary comedian.

During her appearance on *The Late Show with Stephen Colbert* on 6 May, Field revealed that while the rest of the cast often erupted with laughter at Williams’ antics, she remained completely unfazed. This lack of reaction, she noted, became a source of frustration for the beloved funnyman. “I would never laugh, ever,” she admitted. Her unwavering seriousness amidst the laughter of her colleagues made for an amusing, albeit challenging, dynamic on set.

Williams, celebrated for his improvisational skills and ability to generate mirth, apparently took on the task of trying to get Field to break character. However, his attempts proved unsuccessful. “It drove him mad, actually,” Field reminisced, reflecting on his efforts. She noted that no matter how hard he tried, the humour just didn’t resonate with her.

The premise of *Mrs. Doubtfire* centres around a struggling actor, Daniel Hillard, who disguises himself as a British nanny to spend time with his children following a divorce. Field portrayed Miranda Hillard, Daniel’s ex-wife, while Pierce Brosnan played her new romantic interest, Stu. The film has since become a cherished classic, cementing Williams’ legacy in cinematic history.

While Williams’ comedic attempts met with her indifferent response, Field recounted that other cast members managed to get through her defences. She specifically mentioned a memorable moment with Brosnan, who elicited laughter from her by making a fart noise on his arm at a restaurant table. “That was it,” Field said, highlighting the unexpected hilarity of the act, which starkly contrasted her reactions to Williams’ comedic performances on set.

Reflecting on her experience, Field underscored the difficulty of finding humour in Williams’ relentless improvisation. “Robin was always trying something different to make me laugh. It was so unfunny. I can’t begin to tell you,” she said, providing a glimpse into the mutual affection and camaraderie that developed between her and Williams during filming.

Sadly, Williams’ life ended prematurely in August 2014, when he died by suicide at the age of 63. His passing shocked fans worldwide and highlighted the often-hidden struggles faced by performers behind the glamour of showbiz. Williams had been battling an undiagnosed case of Lewy Body Dementia, a brain disorder that can severely impact mood and behaviour.

Field’s revelations not only shed light on her unique experience filming *Mrs. Doubtfire* but also serve as a reminder of the complexities that underpin the lives of those who bring joy to others. The actress’s backstage stories offer a heartwarming and bittersweet glimpse into the making of a film that has brought laughter to millions while poignantly remembering the challenges faced by its star.

As Field continues to share her experiences and reflect on her career, her insights remind us of the intricate balance between comedy and the real-life struggles that are often obscured by the laughter they inspire.