Matthew Lawrence Wants to Use AI to Bring Back Robin Williams’ Voice: “He’s Gotta Be the Voice of AI”
At this year’s Comic-Con, Mrs. Doubtfire star Matthew Lawrence opened up about an idea that’s both nostalgic and controversial. Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, the actor shared that he wants to resurrect Robin Williams’ voice using artificial intelligence, describing it as a heartfelt tribute that could bring comfort and joy to a generation of fans.
“I would love — now, obviously, with the respect and with the OK from his family — but I would love to do something really special with his voice because I know for a generation, that voice is just so iconic.
“It’s not just the fact that I knew him and worked with him and so it’s in my head — it’s in everybody’s head. And it would be so cool.”
The idea came after Lawrence stumbled upon an old TV commercial that featured Williams doing a computerized voiceover. It stuck with him, especially in light of today’s rapid advancement in AI technology.
“It’s kinda like this very contemporary, modern, almost sort of foreshadowing of what’s going on commercial that he did, where he did this computerized voiceover.
“And it always stuck with me. And then, during his passing, with the AI coming out, I’m like, ‘Man, he’s gotta be the voice of AI. He’s gotta be the voice in something.’ So yeah, I would love to do that.”
Lawrence even mused on what it would be like to have Williams' voice helping you with everyday tasks, like navigating traffic. “It would be Robin! It would be so cool. I’m telling you.”
Williams, who passed away in 2014 at the age of 63, left behind a legacy of unforgettable performances. Mrs. Doubtfire, one of his most beloved films, grossed over $440 million worldwide and became a defining comedy of the '90s.
But for Lawrence, the impact went far beyond the screen. In a past interview with People, he reflected on the profound influence Williams had on his life, especially when it came to avoiding substance abuse.
“He was the first adult who really let me in on his condition. Like, full-on let me in. I mean, as bright as he was on camera — I would go visit him in his trailer to talk to him — it was painful for him. It’s really painful for him. He didn’t hide it. He talked to me about it.”
Lawrence recalled the moment clearly. Williams told him:
“Don’t ever do drugs. Especially cocaine. You know when you come to my trailer and you see me like that? That’s the reason why. And now I’m fighting for the rest of my life because I spent 10 years doing something very stupid every day. Do not do it.”
Lawrence said he steered clear of drugs because of that advice. He also shared a story about how Williams helped him land the role of Chris Hillard in Mrs. Doubtfire. The studio had favored another child actor, but during a key audition, Williams playfully pinched Lawrence behind the back to provoke a genuine reaction.
“[Robin] very secretly reached behind my back and pinched me so hard. I got the role because of that little moment over the other boy. It was all Robin Williams. ‘I know what I’m going to do to get this kid this job.’ Thank you, Rob.”
Whether or not Williams’ voice is ever revived through AI, Lawrence’s memories are a reminder of the personal and emotional connections that shaped a generation. His idea is sure to stir up some debate, but it’s rooted in love for the man who gave so much to the world through his voice, humor, and humanity.