Affleck and Damon to Receive Robin Williams Legacy of Laughter Award

The Oscar winners will be feted by Glenn Close’s Bring Change to Mind nonprofit. Affleck and Damon will receive the Robin Williams Legacy of Laughter Award from his children, Zak, Zelda and Cody Williams.

Ben Affleck and Matt Damon are set to receive the Robin Williams Legacy of Laughter Award, an honor established in memory of their late friend and co-star Robin Williams, during a special ceremony hosted by Glenn Close’s mental health advocacy organization, Bring Change to Mind.

The award, presented by Williams’ children Zak, Zelda, and Cody, recognizes Affleck and Damon’s enduring contributions to comedy and storytelling, particularly in light of their collaborative work on the 1997 film “Good Will Hunting,” which Williams co-starred in and which earned both Affleck and Damon Academy Awards for Best Original Screenplay.

The ceremony will take place as part of Bring Change to Mind’s annual initiative to celebrate artists who use their platforms to promote emotional well-being and reduce stigma around mental health. Glenn Close, a longtime advocate for mental health awareness through her nonprofit, will host the event, underscoring the intersection of artistic legacy and humanitarian impact.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, which first reported the news on April 21, 2026, the tribute will highlight not only the comedic brilliance Williams brought to “Good Will Hunting” but also the lasting bond between the three actors, both on and off screen. The film, directed by Gus Van Sant, remains a cultural touchstone for its authentic portrayal of friendship, intellect, and emotional vulnerability.

Affleck and Damon have frequently spoken about Williams’ influence on their lives and careers. In past interviews, both have described him as a mentor, a source of inspiration, and a guiding force in their understanding of performance and humanity. The award serves as a formal acknowledgment of that influence, particularly in the realm of comedic and dramatic storytelling that carries emotional truth.

The Robin Williams Legacy of Laughter Award was created by Williams’ family to honor individuals who embody the spirit of generosity, humor, and compassion that defined the actor’s life and work. Past recipients have included figures known for blending humor with heartfelt storytelling in film, television, and stand-up comedy.

Bring Change to Mind, founded by Glenn Close in 2010, focuses on ending stigma and discrimination surrounding mental illness through education, advocacy, and public engagement. The organization frequently partners with figures in entertainment to amplify its mission, leveraging cultural influence to foster dialogue and understanding.

By hosting this year’s award presentation, Close continues her commitment to using the entertainment industry as a platform for social good. The event will bring together peers, collaborators, and advocates to honor Williams’ legacy while reinforcing the importance of mental wellness in creative communities.

No further details regarding the exact date, venue, or additional participants in the ceremony have been made public as of this reporting. The Hollywood Reporter’s initial report confirms the core elements of the honor: the recipients, the presenters, the hosting organization, and the thematic connection to “Good Will Hunting” and mental health advocacy.