NEW YORK – July 1, 2019 – Today SiriusXM announced that over Independence Day, SiriusXM Comedy Greats channel 94 will pay tribute to comedy icon Robin Williams and his support of U.S. troops. “Robin Williams: God Bless America” will also exclusively premiere two new specials – “Dance For The People” and “Working On Material” – which includes never-before-heard sets from the late comedian’s personal archives.
“Dance For The People” was recorded in late October of 2001, and features Williams working on new stand-up material at Bimbo’s 365 Club in San Francisco. The recording captures the sense of alert and heightened security felt in America right after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and showcases Williams working out acts for his upcoming Live on Broadway show.
“Working On Things” finds Williams back at Bimbo’s 365 Club, now in December of 2006, as he works on jokes for his MGM Grand and Weapons of Self Destruction specials. For any Robin Williams fan, it’s another interesting view into his work process and stream-of-consciousness, and how he would then select which pieces to refine before they were ready for a mass audience.
SiriusXM’s special programming will also include a rarely-heard recording, “Carpe Diem,” which was taped in Kabul, Afghanistan, and gives a rare glimpse into some of the work Williams enjoyed doing as he entertained troops during USO performances overseas. The hour is introduced by Brad Garrett, who was one of Williams’ long-time friends.
The SiriusXM tribute will also include an encore of host Ron Bennington’s original audio documentary, “Robin Williams: A Life In Comedy,” which features commentary from fellow comedians and friends of Williams’, including Bobcat Goldthwait, Louie Anderson, Kevin Pollak, Jay Mohr, Gilbert Gottfried, Andrew Dice Clay, Tom Papa, Chris Gethard, Big Jay Oakerson, Ron White, Reggie Watts, Barry Crimmins, Rick Overton, David Steinberg, Paul Provenza, and Bobby Slayton.
“Robin Williams: God Bless America” premieres on Wednesday, July 3, at 3:00 – 7:00 pm ET. It will replay multiple times throughout Independence Day week and weekend, including July 4 at 2:00 and 7:00 pm ET and Friday at 11:00 am ET.
Visit RobinWilliams.com for more information on the comedy legend.
