During the Kennedy Center Honors, Whoopi Goldberg and Billy Crystal shared a poignant moment as they paid tribute to their late friend and fellow comedian, Robin Williams. The ceremony, held in Washington, D.C., witnessed Goldberg honoring Crystal, a 2023 honoree, while also remembering their beloved colleague Williams, who passed away in 2014.
Goldberg, addressing Crystal, said, “I want to acknowledge…the person who should also be standing here with me is our brother Robin.” This heartfelt mention brought emotions to the surface for both Goldberg and Crystal, as the audience showed their respect for the late Oscar-winning comedian.
@cbs #WhoopiGoldberg acknowledging #RobinWilliams during her tribute to #BillyCrystal has us all tearing up #KCHonors ♬ original sound – CBS
The event, which also celebrated the achievements of Queen Latifah, Dionne Warwick, Barry Gibb, and Renée Fleming, aired on television following its December 3 occurrence.
Crystal, Goldberg, and Williams were known for their collaboration in hosting Comic Relief charity specials in the 1980s and ‘90s, including a 2006 edition to aid Hurricane Katrina victims. They shared a unique comedic bond, often supporting each other’s achievements. Both Williams and Goldberg were present when Crystal received the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2007, a recognition Goldberg had received earlier in 2001 with their support.
Reflecting on Williams’ absence, Crystal said, “I’m missing my friend Robin tonight, very much so, because of all of what we did together. I know that he would be here, and he is. So it’s special, and a lot of feelings for me tonight.”
Their collaboration extended beyond Comic Relief, with Crystal and Williams co-starring in films such as Fathers’ Day, Kenneth Branagh’s Hamlet, Woody Allen’s Deconstructing Harry, and even an episode of Friends.
Crystal had previously honored Williams at the Emmy Awards shortly after his death in August 2014. He remembered Williams as not just a brilliant performer but also a loving and supportive friend, stating, “He was the brightest star in the comedy galaxy.
