When Robin Williams Visited a Sex Shop in His Iconic Mrs. Doubtfire Costume
Robin Williams, the beloved actor known for his comedic brilliance, fully embraced his role as the titular character in the iconic 1993 film, *Mrs. Doubtfire*. Director Chris Columbus revealed that transforming Williams into the English nanny required an extensive makeup process, taking approximately four-and-a-half to five hours.
Filming and Improvisation
The improvisational skills of Williams were legendary. Columbus noted that the actor’s ad-libbing resulted in nearly 2 million feet of film shot during production. This extensive footage included moments that showcased Williams’s ability to stay in character, even when the cameras were rolling.
Behind the Scenes with Co-Stars
Pierce Brosnan, who starred alongside Williams, humorously remarked that he often worked only with Mrs. Doubtfire rather than the man behind the makeup. Brosnan recalled moments of uncontrollable laughter that would sometimes disrupt takes, thanks to Williams’s playful antics.
- Amount of film shot: 2 million feet
- Time taken for makeup: 4.5 to 5 hours
Notably, one memorable moment involved a comedic yet vulgar incident not captured on film. Williams once visited a sex shop in San Francisco while dressed as Mrs. Doubtfire. In a candid 2013 interview with Whoopi Goldberg, he recounted trying to purchase humorous items, including a double-headed dildo and scented lube, before being recognized and asked to leave.
Walking in Character
Williams often took “experimental walks” around San Francisco during breaks in filming to test the believability of his costume. Matthew Lawrence, who played Williams’s son, accompanied him on one such outing. Strangely, no one realized Williams was the talented actor beneath the disguise; they simply perceived him as the British nanny caring for the young boy.
The Legacy of Mrs. Doubtfire
The commitment Williams demonstrated to his role and the lengths he went to embody Mrs. Doubtfire left a lasting impression. His blend of humor, improvisation, and charm continues to resonate with fans, highlighting why *Mrs. Doubtfire* remains a beloved classic.
