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Ethan Hawke Reflects on Robin Williams' Hidden Struggles

12/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Ethan Hawke discussed filming Dead Poets Society with Robin Williams during a CBS Sunday Morning interview.
He said that at age 18 he recognized Williams' emotional struggles and that "all that power and that charisma came at a certain cost."
Hawke recalled Williams being found alone and hiding despite his comedic talent, and he now admires the film for how Williams inspired others.

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Story summary

Ethan Hawke discussed filming Dead Poets Society with Robin Williams during a CBS Sunday Morning interview.
He said that at age 18 he recognized Williams' emotional struggles and that "all that power and that charisma came at a certain cost."
Hawke recalled Williams being found alone and hiding despite his comedic talent, and he now admires the film for how Williams inspired others.