It’s been nearly six years since the beloved comedian Robin Williams passed away tragically by suicide, but his family is still keeping his memory alive by slowly introducing his work to his 1 year-old grandson.
Williams’ son Zak said this week that his own son McLaurin Clement, who goes by Mickey, has fallen in love with one of Williams’ most iconic roles: the genie in the Disney classic Aladdin.
“His mom [Olivia June] and I have certainly considered how we want to introduce my son’s grandfather, my dad, into his life,” Zak told People magazine. “Certainly through his movies and the cartoons that he participated in is a great way. My son, Mickey, points at a cel that we have in his room of my dad that has the genie from Aladdin.”
A cel is a transparent sheet of celluloid that is used in animation, and Zak and his wife have used several of these cels from Williams’ films to decorate Mickey’s room.
“He’s got a collection of photos and animation cels throughout our home that he sees on a daily basis,” said Zak. “I think it’s being mindful and introducing the elements and stories about him slowly.”
“We hope that we can celebrate the positive elements and his works and films in a way that there can be appreciation and acknowledgment of him both as an entertainer, but also as a family man, and parent and grandfather to my son,” he added. “So, the key thing would be for us to introduce it slowly and meaningfully. Taking an opportunity to share stories and his values in a way that we hope can be appreciated and embodied.”
When asked what he’s learned about being a father since Mickey was born last May, Zak said that becoming a dad “completely changes [you].”
“[It gives you] perspective on what it takes to actually show up for another person,” he said. “To be a present and engaged parent requires focus and commitment to time and an effort that … it’s a lot. But the rewards are unlike anything I’ve experienced before.”
“What was new to me was the amount of effort required to show up for a little human,” Zak added. “It’s been the most rewarding thing I’ve experienced to date.”
This piece originally appeared in UpliftingToday.com and is used by permission.
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