Robin Williams Used To Prank Strangers While Dressed As Mrs. Doubtfire

Matthew Lawrence is looking back on one of the sweetest memories from his time making Mrs. Doubtfire. More than 30 years after the beloved 1993 family comedy reached theaters, the actor shared how Robin Williams brought the title character to life even when cameras were not rolling.

According to PEOPLE, Robin Williams’s Mrs. Doubtfire memories came up during a reunion panel in Los Angeles on May 29, 2026. Lawrence, who played Chris Hillard in the film, said one of his favorite memories involved Williams testing the character in public to see whether strangers believed the disguise.

Matthew Lawrence Remembers Williams Trying The Character In Public

Lawrence said Williams did not keep Mrs. Doubtfire only on set. Sometimes, the late comedian would take the character into ordinary public spaces and turn daily life into an unscripted performance. On at least one occasion, Lawrence said Williams brought him along and pretended to be his nanny while speaking with strangers.

The actor remembered those moments with clear affection. Williams would walk with him, start conversations, and see how long he could keep the illusion going. The result always amazed Lawrence because people responded warmly. They did not see a movie star doing a bit. They saw what seemed to be a charming older woman who made them laugh and brightened their day.

The Film Remains One Of Williams’ Most Beloved Roles

Mrs. Doubtfire followed Daniel Hillard, a father who disguises himself as a British nanny to stay close to his children after a divorce. The film’s mix of comedy and heart helped make it one of Robin Williams’ most beloved movies. According to Matthew Lawrence, that same warmth carried into real life, where Williams often used humor to make the people around him feel lighter.

For Lawrence, growing up around that kind of talent left a lasting impression. He was young when the movie was made, but he saw how Williams could turn a walk down the street into a full performance. That kind of generosity helped explain why so many people still remember the actor with deep affection. The Robin Williams Mrs. Doubtfire story also reminds fans why the film has lasted for generations. Behind the jokes was a performer who understood connection. He could make strangers laugh, make children feel included, and make a character feel real enough to live beyond the screen. Decades later, those memories remain part of the film’s charm.