At San Diego Comic-Con, Mrs. Doubtfire star Matthew Lawrence revealed his heartfelt desire to preserve Robin Williams’ iconic voice through AI technology — but only with full approval from the late actor’s family. The 45-year-old actor, who played Williams’ on-screen son Chris Hillard in the 1993 classic, told Entertainment Weekly that hearing an old commercial featuring Williams’ voice recently inspired the idea.
“I would love — with the respect and OK from his family — to do something really special with his voice,” Lawrence emphasized. “For a generation, that voice isn’t just nostalgic, it’s unforgettable. It would be so cool to hear him guide people through AI, whether it’s navigation systems or special projects.” The actor specifically recalled a tech-themed commercial Williams did that now feels “almost foreshadowing” of today’s AI capabilities.
Lawrence’s emotional connection to Williams runs deep. Last year, he shared with People how Williams gave him life-changing advice about avoiding drugs during their time filming Mrs. Doubtfire — advice Lawrence credits with keeping him clean in Hollywood. “He was the first adult who really let me in on his struggles,” Lawrence recalled. “He told me, ‘Don’t ever do drugs. Especially cocaine… I’m fighting for the rest of my life because I spent 10 years doing something very stupid every day.’ I stayed away because of him.”
The actor also revealed Williams may have secretly helped him land the role by pinching him during an audition to create an authentic emotional reaction that moved studio executives to tears. “It was all Robin Williams. ‘I know what I’m going to do to get this kid this job,'” Lawrence said, still grateful decades later.
While AI recreation of deceased performers remains ethically complex, Lawrence’s approach — prioritizing family consent and focusing on celebratory applications rather than full digital resurrection — suggests a thoughtful middle ground. As the 10th anniversary of Williams’ passing approaches in August, the proposal offers a potential way to keep the beloved comedian’s spirit alive for new generations, while honoring the man who meant so much to Lawrence both professionally and personally.
For now, the idea remains in discussion stages, but Lawrence’s clear reverence for his former co-star suggests any future project would prioritize dignity over novelty. “He’s gotta be the voice of AI in something,” Lawrence said. “It would be Robin. It would be so cool.” The careful emphasis on family approval shows this isn’t about exploitation — it’s about preservation of a voice that brought joy to millions.
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