Mrs Doubtfire child star is unrecognisable as she makes very rare TV appearance

10 February 2023 , 10:42

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Mrs Doubtfire child star is unrecognisable as she makes very rare TV appearance

Former child actress Lisa Jakub is unrecognisable to film fans who might only know her as Lydia Hillard in the popular film classic Mrs Doubtfire.

Now Lisa Jakub is a 44-year-old writer and yoga teacher now living in Australia.

Appearing on American TV channel Today Extra, the former child star discussed her time on set for Mrs Doubtfire as the film celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. She called her time shooting the film "special at the time".

The star opened up about her own battles with mental health, and the support and friendship from Robin Williams, who later committed suicide in 2014.

Lisa Jakub played eldest child Lydia Hillard in Mrs Doubtfire, released in 1993 (nine)

Speaking about her experience with the actor, Lisa said: "I have struggled with anxiety and depression my entire life and Robin was very open with me with what he struggled with, and that's a big reason why I do what I do today.

Mrs Doubtfire child actors look unrecognisable 30 years on from film's release

"I work in the space of mental wellness and I help other people who are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety and panic, and it is rooted in the fact that [Robin] was so open with me and was one of the first people that showed me that I didn't have to do this alone."

The now writer and yoga teacher reflected on the film on its 30th anniversary (nine)

Lisa also took the opportunity in the interview to open up about children and the film industry, as she explained: "I think a set is a very difficult place for a child to be, and I don't feel like there are enough protections in place, and we have decided that it's the only industry that it's fine for children to work in."

As Mrs Doubtfire celebrates its 30th anniversary this year since its release in 1993, where it has grown to become a treasured classic thanks to the late Robin Williams' hilarious antics.

The film, starring late Robin Williams, has become a treasured classic since its release in 1993

Lisa said: "It is shocking to me that people still watch it and relate to it and all I can credit it to was Robin. He was hilarious and timeless, and I think the credit goes to him.

She added: "The cast members, we bonded so instantly. Matt [Lawrence] and Mara [Wilson] felt like siblings from the beginning, and Robin and Sally [Field] were so amazing to us, so it did feel special at the time.

"Maybe that's why 30 years later we are still talking about it."

Niamh Spence