Gene Wilder, The Man Who Played Willy Wonka, Has Died Age 83
Good day, sir.
Tributes are pouring in for actor Gene Wilder, who died in his Connecticut home on Sunday from complications caused by Alzheimer’s. He was 83 years old.
“It is with indescribable sadness and blues, but with spiritual gratitude for the life lived, that I announce the passing of husband, parent, and universal artist Gene Wilder,” said Wilder’s nephew Jordan Walker-Pearlman.
Wilder was best known for playing the eccentric candy man in the 1971 musical fantasy Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, for which he received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor.
In addition to his iconic portrayal of Roald Dahl’s chocolatier, Wilder is remembered for his work as a sheep loving doctor in Woody Allen’s Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex (But Were Afraid To Ask) and for his numerous collaborations with writer-director Mel Brooks, on films like The Producers, Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein.
Brooks was one of a number of celebrities to offer their condolences via Twitter.
Gene Wilder-One of the truly great talents of our time. He blessed every film we did with his magic & he blessed me with his friendship.
— Mel Brooks (@MelBrooks) August 29, 2016
RIP dear, wonderful Gene Wilder. What an influence you were in my life. Thank you for all that joy. https://t.co/vzheeZCGLz
— Julia Louis-Dreyfus (@OfficialJLD) August 29, 2016
Gene Wilder was a giant of comedy. His legacy of films is inspiring. A true genius..
— Billy Crystal (@BillyCrystal) August 29, 2016
Gene Wilder was one of the funniest and sweetest energies ever to take a human form. If there's a heaven he has a Golden Ticket. ;^)
— Jim Carrey (@JimCarrey) August 29, 2016
I saw Blazing Saddles 7 times at the cinema with my school friends . George St. Cows outside.
Gene Wilder you were a genius. Rest in Peace.— Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) August 29, 2016
"Good Day Sir!"
RIP Gene Wilder— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) August 29, 2016
According to Wilder’s family, the actor was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s three years ago, but chose to keep the matter private so as to not upset his fans. “He simply couldn’t bear the idea of one less smile in the world,” said Walker-Pearlman.
Wilder is survived by Karen Boyer, his wife of 25 years.