In his new biography of Robin Williams, New York Times culture reporter Dave Itzkoff says the late comedian can best be described as an illusionist, “whose magic trick was making you see what he wanted you to see.” Itzkoff joins Forum to talk about the range of characters Williams invented and inhabited, his influence on stand-up comedy and some of his best known roles, from the manic spaceman Mork to the radio DJ in “Good Morning, Vietnam.” We’ll also discuss the Oscar-winning comedian’s complex private life, and the factors that may have contributed to his 2014 suicide. Itzkoff’s new book is called “Robin.”
Guests:
Dave Itzkoff, author, “Robin”; culture reporter, The New York Times
Related:
Writing About Robin Williams, in Death and Life (New York Times)