It’s been almost five years since the world lost the legendary Robin Williams, who tragically took his own life in August 2014. Now, REELZ is diving deep into the personal battles that lay hidden behind the comedian’s brilliant smile. In a powerful new documentary, Robin Williams: When the Laughter Stops, we explore not only his lifelong struggles with addiction but also the profound impact of his close friend John Belushi’s untimely death.
A Friendship That Changed Everything
Robin Williams, who left us at the age of 63, had an unbreakable bond with John Belushi. On March 5, 1982, Robin found himself standing in a room at the iconic Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles, moments before tragedy struck. Concerned, Robin asked his friend, who was lying on the floor, if he was okay. John assured him everything was fine, and Robin left the scene, never knowing it would be their last encounter. Shortly after, John succumbed to a lethal combination of heroin and cocaine, leaving Robin to carry the weight of that fateful night for the rest of his life.
Living with the Burden

Carrying the burden of witnessing his friend’s final moments must have been unimaginably tough for Robin. Writer-comedian Heather McDonald reflects on this deeply, saying, “It was probably a horrible burden. It would be very difficult, I think, to move on and also to be such close friends.” This emotional weight undoubtedly played a role in shaping the rest of Robin’s life, influencing his battle with addiction and the challenges that followed.
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Unpacking the Documentary
The REELZ documentary delves into the intricate layers of Robin’s life, uncovering how John’s death affected him and the chain of events that unfolded afterward. It’s a raw and honest look at the struggles of one of Hollywood’s most beloved figures, offering viewers a chance to understand the man behind the laughter.
Robin Williams: When the Laughter Stops premieres on REELZ Sunday, August 11, at 9 p.m. E.T. If you’re ready to journey into the heart of Robin’s world, don’t miss it.
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