In Memory of Gene Wilder (1933-2016)

Gene Wilder (1933-2016)

My friends and fellow movie-buffs, the legendary comic actor Gene Wilder, known to younger audiences as the titular character in "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" and is also known for his collaborations with director Mel Brooks in "The Producers", "Blazing Saddles" and "Young Frankenstein" has passed away from complications of Alzheimer's at the age of 83 on August 29th, 2016.

Before becoming a well-known actor and changing his name to Gene Wilder, he ventured into the stage in his late 20s and debuted on television in 1962. Wilder's first film appearance was a minor role when he played a hostage in "Bonnie & Clyde". His professional breakthrough came when he was cast opposite Zero Mostel in Mel Brooks' directorial debut, "The Producers", which earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. After making "The Producers", Wilder had a dry spell with a string of flops, including "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" (which in later years became a cult classic). Wilder was now a highly recognised star in Hollywood. He regained his footing with two successful comedies directed by his old colleague from "The Producers" Mel Brooks, such as "Blazing Saddles" and "Young Frankenstein". The actor also worked with fellow comic Richard Pryor in films like "Silver Streak", "Stir Crazy", "See No Evil, Hear No Evil", and "Another You". Gene was married three times. Once to comedienne Gilda Radner, whom she met Wilder while filming a movie called "Hanky Panky". Their marriage lasted seven years until Gilda tragically died from ovarian cancer in 1989, leaving Gene a widower.

Gene's final appearances were in three television films, "Murder in a Small Town", "Alice in Wonderland", and "The Lady in Question", and two episodes of the television drama "Will and Grace".

Gene Wilder has had a remarkable career in film with the characters he has portrayed. Gene will forever be remembered for years to come for the tremendous work that he has done. May he rest in peace.

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