Counted among the legendary actors of Hollywood, Robin Williams and Robert De Niro had a close friendship in real life. They met each other for the first time on the sets of their 1990’s poignant, emotional drama film. Since then there have been many unusual and funny stories about the two which have made fans adore their friendship even more.

Late actor Robin Williams

While shooting their 1990’s movie Awakenings, there was a little accident on the set which left De Niro’s nose broken. Known for having a rough and tough persona, De Niro shocked everyone with his response.

Robin Williams Once Broke Robert De Niro’s Nose

Robin Williams and Robert De Niro in a still from the movie

The Hollywood legends shared the screen in the movie Awakenings, where Robin Williams played a doctor and Robert De Niro a patient in an ‘irreversible’ paralysis which is later temporarily cured by Williams’ character. During one of the scenes where De Niro had to be restrained by Williams, the latter’s elbow accidentally hit him on his nose, breaking it in the process.

“In the making of that movie I broke his nose by accident. We had this struggle when I was supposed to be restraining him when he was having a seizure and my elbow went ‘bam!’ and it made a noise like a chicken bone breaking.”

Everyone on set was left shocked since they all knew about the Godfather star’s intense temper. However, De Niro remained calm and was happy the ‘little’ accident took place since Williams had accidentally put his nose back in place.

“The thing is, my nose was broken once before, and he knocked it back in the other direction — straightened it out. It looks better than it did before.”

Despite the tough exterior, De Niro proved the gentle fellow he is, and fans loved the way he handled the situation.

Robert De Niro Cannot Watch Awakenings Because Of Robin Williams

De Niro and Williams were good friends

Robin Williams and Robert De Niro have collaborated on multiple movies and remained good friends until the Good Will Hunting star passed away in 2014 after battling severe depression as a result of Lewy body dementia. The same year his longtime friend was awarded the Entertainment Icon Award at the Friars Foundation Gala.

While receiving the award, Williams recalled his late co-star and dedicated the award to him.

“If you know me, you know how much I like to laugh. And no one made me laugh like Robin…He was a wonderful actor, sure, but those feelings were real. No one could fake that kind of love and compassion. Robin, my dear friend, I dedicate this award to you.”

As a clip from the movie was played, De Niro added how he can not watch the movie without remembering his good friend and that he missed him dearly.