Colin Mochrie Recalls Working with Robin Williams on “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”, Says Actor Sweated ‘Through 3 Shirts’

Colin Mochrie, renowned for his role in the improvisational comedy show *Whose Line Is It Anyway?*, recently shared nostalgic memories of fellow comedian Robin Williams during a guest appearance on the *Dos and D* podcast. Mochrie, aged 68, recounted the day Williams guest starred on the programme over 25 years ago, reminiscing fondly about the late actor’s immense talent and generosity.

Reflecting on the experience, Mochrie described Williams as “everything you wanted your inspiration to be.” He expressed his astonishment that an Oscar-winning actor such as Williams took the time to appear on their show. Williams was in Vancouver filming his movie *One Hour Photo*, and his willingness to participate was a delightful surprise for the cast and crew alike.

Mochrie noted how Williams seamlessly integrated himself into the group, quickly learning the names of the crew members and chatting with everyone around him. “He was incredibly generous and, of course, funny,” Mochrie added, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere Williams created. After filming, the actors engaged in an additional hour of performances, with Mochrie emphasising that Williams stayed for the entire session, showcasing his dedication to the craft.

The energy level during Williams’ appearance skyrocketed, according to Mochrie, who described it as if “everyone’s energy was ramped up 150%.” The late comedian was known for his high-paced humour, which brought an infectious enthusiasm to the set. Williams was so lively that he ended up going through three shirts due to perspiration. Mochrie recounted a particularly humorous moment when an audience member implored Williams for his shirt, resulting in a lighthearted moment when he tossed it into the crowd, with a memorable impact.

Mochrie’s time on *Whose Line Is It Anyway?* was enriched by collaborating with other notable comedians, including Wayne Brady, Ryan Stiles, and Greg Proops. The show originally adapted from a British series of the same name aired from 1998 to 2007 on ABC, before being revived in 2013 with Aisha Tyler as host. Throughout those years, Mochrie recalls that each guest star brought a unique energy to the show, but few matched Williams’ exuberance.

Aside from Williams, Mochrie also paid tribute to Sid Caesar, a legendary comedian who greatly influenced him. Caesar, who was a major figure in American comedy from the 1950s onward, guest-starred on *Whose Line Is It Anyway?* when he was in his 80s. His physical condition on set required a cane, yet Mochrie noted a striking transformation in Caesar’s demeanour as soon as the cameras began rolling.

While recounting this meeting, Mochrie explained how Caesar employed double-talk techniques that skillfully made gibberish sound like a foreign language, a hallmark of his comedic style on *Caesar’s Hour*. Once the episode began, his vitality seemed to return, as if he had shed decades in spirit. Mochrie, who was translating for Caesar during their routine, described the moment he translated something particularly humorous, prompting a wink and thumbs-up from the legendary comedian, leaving him thoroughly exhilarated.

Despite not being of the age to witness Caesar’s early performances, Mochrie remarked on the profound influence the comedian had on him and his work. The encounter with such a formidable talent served as a poignant reminder of the legacy that older comedians leave for rising generations.

Colin Mochrie’s experiences with both Robin Williams and Sid Caesar underscore the interconnectedness of comedy and the influence that seasoned performers have on their contemporaries. These memories continue to resonate within the world of comedy, illustrating how the legacies of past icons can inspire current and future stars. As Mochrie cherishes these moments in his career, they serve as testament to the rich tapestry of humour that shapes the industry.