Introduction
Robin Williams was one of the most beloved actors and comedians of our time. He was known for his quick wit, infectious humor, and ability to make people laugh. But he was also known for his love of animals, especially primates. In fact, Williams had a special bond with a famous gorilla named Koko.
Who Is Koko?
Koko is a female gorilla who was born in San Francisco Zoo in 1971. She was taught sign language by Dr. Francine Patterson, who wanted to see if gorillas were capable of learning human language. Koko quickly learned to communicate through sign language and became famous for her ability to understand and use more than 1,000 signs.
How Did Robin Williams Meet Koko?
In 2001, Robin Williams visited The Gorilla Foundation in Woodside, California, where Koko lived. Williams was a big fan of Koko and wanted to meet her in person. When Williams and Koko met, they quickly hit it off. Williams made Koko laugh by doing his famous impressions and making silly faces. Koko even tried to do her own impression of Williams' voice!
Their Friendship
After their first meeting, Williams and Koko became fast friends. Williams visited Koko several times over the years and even gave her a harmonica as a gift. Koko loved playing the harmonica and would often play it for visitors.
Williams' Legacy
Robin Williams passed away in 2014, but his friendship with Koko lives on. The Gorilla Foundation released a statement after Williams' death, saying, "Robin's ability to just 'hang out' with Koko, a gorilla, and in minutes become one of her closest friends, was extraordinary and unforgettable."
Conclusion
Robin Williams and Koko's friendship is a testament to the power of love and connection between humans and animals. Their bond shows that even the most unlikely of friendships can be formed when we open our hearts and minds. Williams' legacy lives on through his work as an actor and comedian, but also through the memories of his friendship with Koko.