In a recent interview on Shannen Doherty's Let's Be Clear podcast, actress Sarah Michelle Gellar opened up about her friendship with the late Robin Williams and how his tragic death shifted her perspective on life. The two worked together on the CBS sitcom The Crazy Ones from 2013 to 2014, with Gellar feeling a deep sense of protectiveness towards Williams during that time.
Gellar revealed that despite having a three-month-old son at the time, she couldn't pass up the opportunity to work with Williams. She saw it as a chance to learn and grow from a comedic genius. However, once they started working together, Gellar became one of the few people who knew that Williams was struggling with his mental health.
Throughout his storied career, Williams battled his own demons, and Gellar was determined to support him. She soaked up every moment she could with him, ensuring he was okay and not overwhelmed by the demands of their TV show. Gellar described herself and a few others on the show as being 'very protective' of Williams, striving to help him without divulging his personal struggles.
Tragically, Williams died by suicide on August 11, 2014, at the age of 63. It was later revealed that he had been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, a progressive and debilitating form of dementia. His death had a profound impact on Gellar, causing her to reevaluate her own priorities.
She shared with Doherty on the podcast how everything came to a halt when she received the news of Williams' passing. It was a wake-up call for her to step away from the Hollywood whirlwind and focus on what truly mattered in her life, particularly her children. Gellar realized that she didn't want to miss out on her kids' early years and important milestones. It was this realization, prompted by Robin Williams' death, that motivated her to take time off from her career.
Gellar reflected on the significance of those moments that stop you in your tracks. They provide a newfound clarity and help to shift one's priorities. She wanted to be there for her children and create lasting memories with them. The actress, known for her iconic roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and other projects, recognized the preciousness of time and the importance of being present in her children's lives.
In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE in 2022, Gellar further explained her decision to take a break after Williams' passing. She emphasized the need to be the parent she wanted to be and cherish her children's formative years. Having dedicated most of her life to her career, Gellar realized that it was time to prioritize her role as a mother.
The tragic loss of Robin Williams not only affected Gellar personally but also had a profound impact on her outlook and choices. It served as a reminder to not let life's precious moments slip away. Gellar's decision to step back from the spotlight and focus on her family is a testament to the lasting influence of a cherished friendship and the power of self-reflection.
