Jack Black, who is due to star in the reboot of Jumanji, has confirmed that Robin Williams' character from the original 1995 version, Alan Parrish, will have a role in the upcoming film. Chatting to The Hollywood Reporter at CineEurope, the School of Rock star spoke about how the late actor would be remembered in the film.
© Photo: RexRobin played Alan Parrish in the film
In the original movie, Alan Parrish is trapped in the jungle-themed board game as a child, only to return to the real world 26 years later when the board game is played again. The upcoming film Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, will enter the jungle for the first time, which is where Robin's character comes in. "We're exploring this jungle and trying to conquer the game; its life or death," Jack explained. "But while we're there, we find clues left behind by Alan Parrish. He built up a full-blown jungle house, similar to a Swiss Family Robinson situation. It's like he's there helping us without actually being there." He added: "You never got to see the inside world. But this one takes place primarily inside the jungle of Jumanji. That's the coolest part of the film — we're able to transport the audience to that secret and wondrous land, with the danger and the beauty."
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Robin William passed away in 2014 after taking his own life. At the time, his representative said: "Robin Williams passed away this morning. He has been battling severe depression of late. This is a tragic and sudden loss. The family respectfully asks for their privacy as they grieve during this very difficult time." His wife Susan Schneider released a statement to the New York Times, which read: "This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings. I am utterly heartbroken. On behalf of Robin's family, we are asking for privacy during our time of profound grief."
