Ethan Hawke is opening up about his early days on ‘Dead Poets Society‘, and he’s sharing memories that point to something much deeper happening behind the scenes. While the movie is loved for its warmth and inspiration, Hawke remembers the struggles Robin Williams went through during filming.
Back then, Hawke was in awe of Williams’ brilliance, much like the departed actor’s fans all around. But his inner demons engulfed him on set, too.
Ethan Hawke Noticed Robin Williams’ Inner Turmoil During ‘Dead Poets Society’ Shoot
When Hawke joined the ‘Dead Poets Society‘ cast in 1989, he was just 18 and still very new to movies. His only film credit at the time was the 1985 sci-fi movie ‘Explorers,’ which didn’t connect with audiences. Landing the role of Todd Anderson was a major step for him. At the same time, Robin Williams hadn’t yet reached the biggest peak of his career, but he was already a popular star thanks to films like Popeye and The World According to Garp, which helped make him a bankable name.
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During a conversation on CBS Sunday Morning, Hawke said Williams’ death in 2014 didn’t change how he views the film now, because even back then, he felt aware of how emotionally complex Williams’ life seemed. Hawke explained that his own family had a history of depression, so he recognized certain patterns and sensed that Williams’ energy and charisma came with a cost. Hawke also described Williams as a very sensitive person who paid close attention to the energy in every room.
The Exact Moment Ethan Witnessed Robin Williams’ Heartbreaking Truth
Hawke shared a specific moment that shaped his view of Williams. He recalled watching Williams improvise lines during filming, entertaining everyone and getting nonstop laughter and praise from the cast and crew. But later, when Hawke walked off for a drink or a snack, he unexpectedly found Williams sitting alone in a dark corner, trying to collect himself. Hawke said that moment helped him understand how draining those high-energy performances could be for Williams, and he described the emotional load as “taxing.”
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Hawke has talked before about how Williams influenced him professionally. Speaking to Vanity Fair, he remembered Williams not sticking to the script and instead acting on any idea that came to him in the moment. Hawke said he didn’t realize actors could do that and felt like Williams opened a new door for him creatively. As filming continued, their connection started mirroring their characters. Williams naturally became a mentor figure to Hawke, similar to how John Keating guides Todd Anderson in the film.
Now, when Hawke watches ‘Dead Poets Society‘, he thinks about the spirit Williams carried throughout filming and how powerful it felt to everyone around him. He remembers how much Williams pushed through his own internal storms while still giving everything he could to the cast and to audiences.
