Robin Williams’ son Zak recalls his dad helping homeless strangers: ‘He cared deeply about people’

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Zak Williams, the elder son of the late legendary actor and comedian Robin Williams, shared how his father showed him the true meaning of kindness in an interview with People published on Sunday, December 8.

The 41-year-old told the publication at the 12th Annual Bring Change to Mind Revels & Revelations gala about his father's strong desire to work for the improvement of the "human condition", and how he and his siblings are carrying on the star's legacy, following his death in 2014 at the age of 63.

Robin Williams' habit of helping strangers in need

Zak Williams shared that his father loved helping those in need and frequently offered to support strangers he came across on the streets.

"When I was a little kid and we'd be walking in San Francisco where I grew up, he would stop, talk to someone on the street — a homeless person — say, 'Hey boss, what can I do for you?' And we'd see him get meals, food, money," he told People.

"He cared deeply about people in need, and I think for me, he opened my eyes to really what kindness was all about," explained Zak. "It was deeply important to him to help improve the human condition, and that extends beyond helping people laugh and learn about themselves."

"It also related to how he could actually support organizations materially by helping raise funds and awareness for organizations like the Challenged Athletes Foundation, the (Christopher & Dana Reeve) Foundation, and St Jude's, among many others," Zak added.

Robin Williams' children committed to honoring his legacy

Since the shocking demise of Robin Williams, Zak Williams and his siblings Zelda, 35, and Cody, 33, have taken it upon themselves to carry on the philanthropic efforts of their father.

"We see it as a natural extension of what he would want, which is helping bring healing and helping develop resilience for folks, especially young people. He loved kids. And as a family, we feel it's a natural way to honor his legacy," Zak shared with the publication.

Zak chairs Bring Change to Mind, the non-profit organization of actress Glenn Close that works to end the stigma and discrimination surrounding mental illness.

On July 21, which would have been Robin's 73rd birthday, Zak shared a heartwarming post on X, writing, "I remember you for all the hope and joy you brought to the world. There's not a week that goes by without someone sharing with me how you helped them through a dark time or a rough patch. I'm so grateful to be your son. Love you forever.”