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How Hollywood Icon Robin Williams Became The First Male NFL Cheerleader In History
In order to get footage for his TV show Mork and Mindy, Williams assumed the role of cheerleader during one professional football game in 1979
Few Hollywood actors elicit as many fond memories as Robin Williams. The exuberant comedian charmed audiences for decades with his humor and smooth delivery. One of his best known roles was that of Mork in the titular television show Mork and Mindy. It was because of this role that he was able to briefly serve as an NFL (National Football League) cheerleader for the Denver Broncos — the first man with such a distinction.
Williams began accruing Hollywood acting credits in 1977. He appeared on popular shows like Happy Days and Laugh-In, but Mork and Mindy became his first star vehicle. The comedy was a spin-off of the character he portrayed on Happy Days — an alien from another planet experiencing the fish out of water effect on earth along with his human friend Mindy.
Williams’ over-the-top quirkiness immediately made him stand out. These qualities were perfect for Mork, as the alien constantly found himself in impossible and hilarious situations due to his lack of familiarity with basic customs and expectations.
