Inside Matthew Lawrence's Relationship With Robin Williams

The following article includes mentions of substance abuse, mental health issues, and suicide.

Robin Williams and Matthew Lawrence famously played father and son (and nanny and child) in the 1993 film, "Mrs. Doubtfire." But what was their relationship like away from the cameras?

Back in 2018, Lawrence revealed to Page Six that his first meeting with Williams was when the latter was in character as Mrs. Doubtfire — but he didn't know it. In fact, Lawrence told the outlet he was incredibly confused when, during the audition process, he was met with an unexpected arrival. "They sit me down on the couch and all of a sudden this elderly British woman sits next to me," he recounted. That was not all she did, though. Out of nowhere, he recalled, she began tussling with him, prompting a yelp from the shocked young actor — and an amused audience, which ultimately awarded him the part. Per People, Lawrence mused at the 2022 90s Con that Williams had done it precisely with that in mind. "I got the role because of that little moment over the other boy. It was all Robin Williams. 'I know what I'm going to do to get this kid this job.' Thank you, Rob," he said. 

It's pretty clear, then, that from the very start, the late comedian had a soft spot for Lawrence, and that the "Boy Meets World" alum was incredibly grateful to him for it — but what more do we know about their relationship once filming wrapped? 

Robin Williams and Matthew Lawrence's relationship may have begun with a playful tussle, but that's not to say they shied away from more serious topics of conversation. Far from it, Lawrence revealed that Williams was incredibly open with him about his experience with addiction and its effect on his mental health.

Speaking at 90s Con, Lawrence shared, "[Williams] was the first adult who really let me in on his condition. Like full-on let me in," (via People). However, the "Good Will Hunting" star made sure to use his struggles to ensure Lawrence went down a different path than the one he took. Williams shared that his earlier drug use played a major role in his mental health, and warned him to stay away. "He was like, 'You know when you come to my trailer and you see me like that?' He's like, 'That's the reason why. And now I'm fighting for the rest of my life because I spent 10 years doing something very stupid every day. Do not do it,'" Lawrence recounted. 

Lawrence previously told Page Six of the major impact that conversation had on his life. He even admitted to the outlet, "There are moments when that voice prevented me from doing anything wrong." It's no surprise, then that, per People, the actor has always thought of the conversation as "a gift" from his beloved co-star. 

If you or anyone you know needs help with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

If you or someone you know needs help with mental health, please contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, call the National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), or visit the National Institute of Mental Health website.

According to IMDb, "Mrs. Doubtfire" was filmed over the span of 70 days. That meant Matthew Lawrence and Robin Williams had ample time to get to know each other as colleagues — but according to Lawrence, that was just the beginning of a years-long friendship. 

Speaking to Page Six, the "Brotherly Love" star told the outlet that Williams kept in contact with him long after filming wrapped. However, even without those habitual check-ins, the "What Dreams May Come" actor made his mark on his former co-star. In the wake of Williams' heartbreaking death by suicide in 2014, Lawrence didn't hold back on just how profound his impact had been. In a statement to E! News, he revealed that he was, "Devastated," and gushed that, "Not a day goes by [that] I don't appreciate the time I got to spend with him." Lawrence also shared that Williams had been "the single most important influence in my career." 

Williams' passing undoubtedly left a gaping hole in the hearts of all those who worked with him, as well as those of his family, friends, and fans. We're just happy to have witnessed the magic he possessed and knowing the lifelong impact he had on Matthew Lawrence only makes his legacy sweeter. 

If you or anyone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline​ by dialing 988 or by calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255)​.