Gene Wilder, the man who brought Willy Wonka to life, has died at the age of 83.
The world is sadder today with news that Gene Wilder has died at the age of 83. Wilder starred in dozens of films over the years, but he was perhaps best known as the man who brought Willy Wonka to life in 1971’s Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.
Wilder was spotted last year on his way to the final match of the US Open grand slam last September. He appeared frail as he walked to the event with his wife. Less than a year later we learn of his passing.
Gene Wilder had a prolific movie career beginning in the 1960s. His career took off with roles in hugely popular Mel Brooks movies like The Producers, Young Frankenstein, and Blazing Saddles and he was best known for the timeless classic Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, a movie that was delightful, touching, and terrifying. (Who can forget that boat ride!?)
He was well known around the Saturday Night Live scene partly due to his marriage to Gilda Radner, who passed away from a long battle with cancer in 1989. Wilder also co-starred with SNL great Richard Pryor in such comedy classics as Stir Crazy, See No Evil Hear No Evil, and Silver Streak. Wilder and Pryor were a great team who shared unbelievable onscreen chemistry, tackling taboo racial and social issues with ease.
After Radner’s death in 1989 Wilder promoted ovarian cancer research in her honor. He left acting soon thereafter to focus on writing. He published his memoir, Kiss Me Like a Strange: My Search for Love and Art, in 2005. He also wrote a collection of short stories and several novels. His most recent novel, Something to Remember You By, was released in 2013.
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Wilder was known for being a gentle soul, and his portrayal of Willy Wonka will live on forever.