Many people were inspired to follow their passions by Robin Williams’ distinct brand of comedy. Likewise, many newer artists turned to the internet to pay heartfelt tributes to the legendary actor-comedian after it was revealed that he had committed suicide.

Williams’ co-star in the film Dead Poets Society, Ethan Hawke, was one of the artists, who was profoundly influenced by his work. The late actor played the inspirational English teacher in the well-liked movie and Hawke played his student. Both have even gushed and praised each other’s performance during their time making the film.

Even though audiences and critics continued to laud the 1989 film, the 52-year-old American actor, author, and film director once admitted that working with Williams wasn’t always easy.

Robin Williams was a beloved actor, best known for his humor

What is the reality behind these claims? Williams supposedly hated Hawke, but was this true? And how did their alleged conflict affect the creation of the Dead Poets Society and its legacy?

Robin Williams’ Jokes Were Not Received Well By Ethan Hawke On Set

It’s important to note that Robin Williams was famous for his extraordinary comedic talent and his capacity to make any situation humorous. Many actors and directors, who had the chance to work with him, praised Williams’ improvisational abilities and comedic timing. But sometimes, the dynamics of a movie set can ultimately be complicated, and people’s perspectives and experiences can differ.

There is no hard evidence that Williams and Hawke ‘hated’ each other or that there was a significant argument on the set, even though it is true that their acting styles were somewhat different.

The late actor had a reputation for being full of life, while the Gattaca actor had a reputation for being intensely reflective.

Robin Williams

Hawke talked about his experience working on Dead Poets Society. Williams “had a habit of making jokes on set,” according to the Boyhood star, which Hawke found to be “incredibly irritating”. 

Hawke admitted, “He wouldn’t stop [joking], and I wouldn’t laugh at anything he did,” leading him to believe that Mrs. Doubtfire actor “hated” him. So, ultimately, it was all assumptions made by the 52-year-old actor.

Also, in contrast, Williams and Hawke have both praised each other’s work and commitment to the movie in interviews and have had nothing but positive things to say about each other.

Dead Poets Society Marks Ethan Hawke’s Significant Role

Following his success with Dead Poets Society, Ethan Hawke established himself as a household name in the industry. His portrayal of the reserved Todd Anderson was well-received by ‌viewers.

After the 1989 movie received positive reviews, Hawke was chosen for notable movies like Reality Bites and the Before Trilogy. Later, the actor expanded into a variety of genres, such as sci-fi and horror dramas. He appeared in the 1997 film, Gattaca, with Jude Law and Uma Thurman, as well as the 2012 horror film, Sinister.

Ethan Hawke

Even though there have been conflicting reports about him and Robin Williams, they shouldn’t overshadow their 1989 film’s true significance and impact.

Dead Poets Society is a lovely and motivational ode to the value of education, mentoring, friendship, and poetry, Thus, it should be admired for what it is rather than for what some rumors claim it to be.

As fans, we should honor the Dead Poets Society’s legacy and the talents of Robin Williams and Ethan Hawke, without spouting unfavorable sentiments.