One of our all time favourite comedic actors, Gene Wilder, has sadly passed away at 83-years-old due to reported complications with Alzheimers.
He brought magic into our lives when he played his most coveted role as Willy Wonka in the book-to-screen adaption of the Roald Dahl novel.
He always stole the show with his roles in the likes of The Producers, Young Frankenstein and See No Evil Hear No Evil and has left family, friends and fans alike devastated about his loss.
The American actor died in his home in Stamford, Connecticut, surrounded by his loved ones. Wilder’s nephew, Jordan Walker-Perlman, stated:
“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.
He continued to enjoy art, music, and kissing with his leading lady of the last twenty-five years, Karen. He danced down a church aisle at a wedding as parent of the groom and ring bearer, held countless afternoon movie western marathons and delighted in the the company of beloved ones.”
An outpour of condolences and heartfelt messages about the iconic actor have buzzed on social media since his passing on Monday August 29th, with many celebrities who worked alongside him or looked up to him joining in on the tributes:
“We are the music makers, and we are the dreamers of the dreams.“ farewell Gene Wilder, you were a treasure
— Elijah Wood (@elijahwood) 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
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
Fellow comedic actor, Jim Carrey, left one of the most fitting messages to the Hollywood legend:
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
‘If there’s a heaven he has a golden ticket‘.
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