Acting Legend Gene Wilder Passes Away at 83!

Very sad news to report today legendary actor Gene Wilder has passed away at age 83. If you grew up in the 70’s and 80’s you are old enough to really appreciate the comedic magic that Gene Wilder was. If you are a bit younger, you probably remember him best for his most iconic role as Willy Wonka. One thing is for certain, for fans like myself, he will be sorely missed. Check out more on the life of Gene Wilder Below and share your thoughts AFTER THE JUMP!

Gene Wilder, who regularly stole the show in such comedic gems as “The Producers,” “Blazing Saddles,” “Young Frankenstein,” “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” and “Stir Crazy,” died Monday at his home in Stamford, Conn. His nephew Jordan Walker-Pearlman said he died of complications from Alzheimer’s disease. He was 83.

His nephew said in a statement, “We understand for all the emotional and physical challenges this situation presented we have been among the lucky ones — this illness-pirate, unlike in so many cases, never stole his ability to recognize those that were closest to him, nor took command of his central-gentle-life affirming core personality. The decision to wait until this time to disclose his condition wasn’t vanity, but more so that the countless young children that would smile or call out to him “there’s Willy Wonka,” would not have to be then exposed to an adult referencing illness or trouble and causing delight to travel to worry, disappointment or confusion. He simply couldn’t bear the idea of one less smile in the world.

Source: Variety