Robin Williams as the America Flag

[putnam6]

Robin Williams, the American flag

[Owlwatcher]

Hey, its my buddy Jose the Mexican flag. Man, those guys you're with sure know how to wave you. They're even standing on top of a police car so people can get a better look at you. And there's Antoine the rainbow flag. His wavers now how to have fun. Yo, work it girlfriend, wave wave wave and don't behave! I'm just being dragged around by this fat girl with the blue hair.  Speaking of blue , there's the Ukraine flag Vlad. Haven't seen you around much, where you been at guy?  Chilling at the DNC? Cool.  And over there's Moishe the Israel flag. Oops, there he goes. Man, he's getting jumped. I don't get it. He runs Hollywood but they hate him here in LA. Alright Now this skinny guy in the mask with the man bun is squirting lighter fluid on me, what's up with that? Uh oh, he's got a cigarette lighter. Smoking is bad for you unless its not cigarettes. No, don't get it near me, watch it. Owww!!! Aieeeeee!!!!!!!

[Nerb]

Ironic he died from hanging eh?

[putnam6]

Robin Williams was widely perceived as leaning liberal in his political views, though he was not overtly dogmatic or heavily involved in partisan politics. His public persona and comedic work often reflected progressive values, such as empathy for the marginalized, critiques of authority, and support for social justice causes. For example, he was an advocate for issues like homelessness, veterans' rights, and AIDS research, performing at benefits like Comic Relief, which aligned with liberal-leaning humanitarian efforts. His satirical jabs at conservative figures and policies, including during his stand-up routines and talk show appearances, further suggested a liberal bent—though he also poked fun at liberals and bureaucracy broadly, showcasing his irreverent, equal-opportunity humor.
However, Williams was known for keeping his personal politics relatively private, focusing more on universal human experiences than explicit political activism. He avoided aligning directly with any political party, and his close friendships with people across the ideological spectrum, like conservative comedian Bobcat Goldthwait, indicate he valued personal connection over ideology. Some X posts and articles note that while his humor and causes leaned left, he was critical of political extremes and hypocrisy on all sides, reflecting a nuanced perspective rather than strict partisanship.
In short, while Robin Williams' actions and comedy suggested liberal leanings, he was not a vocal political crusader, prioritizing humor and humanity over rigid ideology.

He had been suffering from Lewy body dementia (LBD), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes cognitive decline, hallucinations, motor issues, and severe mood swings. This condition was not diagnosed during his lifetime, and its symptoms—combined with his existing struggles with depression—likely exacerbated his distress. LBD is known for being particularly challenging, as it can mimic other disorders and cause significant emotional and physical suffering.

Robin Williams was an extraordinarily beloved figure, celebrated for his unparalleled comedic genius, warmth, and versatility as an actor. His ability to bring joy through roles in films like Mrs. Doubtfire, Good Will Hunting (for which he won an Oscar), Dead Poets Society, and Aladdin endeared him to millions. Fans and colleagues alike admired his quick wit, improvisational brilliance, and genuine kindness. Posts on X and countless tributes after his passing reflect a universal sentiment: he was a "national treasure," a "genius" whose laughter and humanity touched lives deeply. His ability to connect through humor and vulnerability made him a cultural icon, with many describing him as someone who "felt like a friend" even to strangers.
Diagnosis
Robin Williams struggled with mental health issues throughout much of his life, including battles with depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. In the years leading up to his death, he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, which added to his emotional and physical burdens. However, an autopsy later revealed that he had been suffering from Lewy body dementia (LBD), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes cognitive decline, hallucinations, motor issues, and severe mood swings. This condition was not diagnosed during his lifetime, and its symptoms—combined with his existing struggles with depression—likely exacerbated his distress. LBD is known for being particularly challenging, as it can mimic other disorders and cause significant emotional and physical suffering.
Death
Robin Williams died by suicide on August 11, 2014, at the age of 63 in his home in Paradise Cay, California. His death shocked the world and sparked global mourning. The autopsy confirmed the presence of Lewy body dementia, which his widow, Susan Schneider, later said was a major factor in his struggles, describing it as a "chemical warfare in his brain." She emphasized that his suicide was not a result of weakness but rather the overwhelming effects of an undiagnosed disease compounding his lifelong mental health challenges.
The outpouring of grief following his death underscored his impact. Fans shared stories of how his films and comedy helped them through personal struggles, while colleagues like Steve Martin and Billy Crystal spoke of his irreplaceable spirit. His legacy endures through his work and the countless lives he touched with his humor and humanity.

[Owlwatcher]

I truly respected Robin Williams for his dramatic acing ability , particularly the troubled characters he portrayed. He could tap into a part of himself that was very dark and it clicked. He could also show genius wit in his comedy, a manic freedom of expression.
    But his political rantings made me describe him as a baboon on crack. Anger, resentment, a certain prejudice.

[putnam6]

I truly respected Robin Williams for his dramatic acing ability , particularly the troubled characters he portrayed. He could tap into a part of himself that was very dark and it clicked. He could also show genius wit in his comedy, a manic freedom of expression.
    But his political rantings made me describe him as a baboon on crack. Anger, resentment, a certain prejudice.

We look at it differently; nothing wrong with it either. 

I'm just pointing out that this is where I am at. I remembered this specific event, and I posted it. It isn't a support or indictment of Robin Williams; the poster is only inserting the specific comedic performance into the conversation 

Pointing out life's absurdities to an extreme is what comedians do; it's not Robin Williams' fault that it rubbed your emotions the wrong way. 

Nor is it the genuinely beloved and missed Robin Williams' fault that he had his well-known addiction problems during many of his earlier performances, and possibly those abuses led to his later health problems.

In the larger scheme, the man did infinitely more good for the world than harm.

[argentus]

Robin Williams, the American flag

[Video: https://youtu.be/AtKJCBMqybQ?si=4badhygjcRj9_n69]

Robin Williams was a treasure.   It's too bad none of us could touch his depression.   I worry about the same thing with Jim Carrey.   People who spread so much joy but have none left over after the sowing for themselves.

[WallFlowerActive]

I thought the USA flag was a symbol representing the USA constitution?  I thought the US constitution spoke for the US flag?