Billy Crystal To Pay Tribute To Robin Williams At The Emmys
Like many people, Billy Crystal was in shock when he heard the sudden passing of fellow friend and comedian Robin Williams. Since Robin’s passing, Crystal has been relatively quiet about the subject. Our guess is because it’s a personal blow, especially when the news got out that Williams had committed suicide after spending decades struggling with depression.
Since Billy Crystal’s initial tweet in response to Robin Williams’ death, Crystal has not tweeted at all. That said, it’s just been announced that Crystal will be honoring Robin Williams at the Emmys on Monday.
Entertainment Weekly reports that it was executive producer Don Mischer who announced the program and revealed the news that the late actor will have a tribute. In a statement Mischer said of the special tribute to the Good Will Hunting actor, “the proper and meaningful remembrance he so well deserves.”
Williams’ honor will happen during the “in memoriam” segment while Sara Bareilles will provide the music. Robin Williams made an appearance at last year’s Emmy ceremony to honor actor Jonathan Winters. At the time, everything was overshadowed by Cory Monteith’s special tribute and the controversy that ensued when people felt his spotlight wasn’t necessary. To counter that criticism the ceremony also highlighted James Gandolfini, Jean Stapleton, Jonathan Winters, and Gary David Goldberg.
As for Billy Crystal and Robin Williams, the pair had been friends for years. Williams, Whoopi Goldberg and Crystal founded Comic Relief USA in 1986 to raise money for the homeless. Since the benefit was launched it has raised $80 million for the homeless. The trio performed together for years at the benefit, which was televised for a number of years by HBO. Billy and Robin also shared the screen in Deconstructing Harry and the small screen in cameos like Friends.
Since Williams’ passing, many of his colleagues have come forward to honor the actor on Twitter. Here are just a few responses.
I can’t believe the news about Robin Williams. He gave so much to so many people. I’m heartbroken.
— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) August 11, 2014
To watch David Letterman’s admiration for Robin Williams is overwhelming. What a beautiful tribute. https://t.co/eB7lOuqMxs — Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) August 19, 2014
Robin had a ton of love & did so much for so many. He made Matt & my dreams come true. What do you owe a guy who does that? Everything.
— Ben Affleck (@BenAffleck) August 12, 2014
BillyCrystal is right…There are No words — Whoopi Goldberg (@WhoopiGoldberg) August 12, 2014
Took a walk in NYC this morning under a tree lined street. Perfect breeze. Looked like it was raining flowers. I know that was you Robin.
— jimmy fallon (@jimmyfallon) August 12, 2014
[Image via Bing]
