We got Williams on the horn from his L.A. home, where he told us a bit about other personal lore, such as his scene as the Hitchhiker in Something About Mary. I feel lucky. Its like writing a hit song to make such a classic moment in a movie, says Williams. That whole scene is probably 60% improvised, but its amazing what sticks. Does that mean Williams is closer in persona to the 7-minute-abs-pumping hitcher than hed like to admit? Yes, man! The bodies are in the basement!
Being a bit out there might seem like it comes easy for Williams as well, but hes worked non-stop for 30 years now, perfecting his craft. Actually, thats crafts aside from making hundreds of appearances in TV and film, Williams has his own line of childrens books, hosts a radio show, makes music with his cousin from Barenaked Ladies, and has worked as an accomplish painter since he was in his teens. I was a busy guy. I came out of college fired up to make stuff happen, he explains. I would paint in the day and go downtown to do my gig at the comedy club at night. I just felt like the whole world was in front of me, and I kept thinking, Wow, whats going to happen? Unlike Williams other mysteries, we know what happened: He became one of the most cherished entertainers of his generation. Tonight he hits the Improv Paradise Live (5700 Seminole Way, Hollywood) for a weekend stint. Tickets cost $21. Call 954-981-5653, or visit www.improvftl.com.
Fri., Feb. 15; Sat., Feb. 16; Sun., Feb. 17, 2008