Willy Wonka Actor Gene Wilder Passes Away at 83

Actor Gene Wilder has passed away due to Alzheimer's complications, The Associated Press reports. Wilder is known for playing Willy Wonka in the children's classic Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. He is also known for his roles in Young Frankenstein and Blazing Saddles, among other films. He was 83 when he passed.

In a statement to Variety, Gene Wilder's nephew, Jordan Walker-Pearlman said that Wilder was diagnosed with Alzheimer's three years ago, but kept his condition private because he didn't want to sadden fans. He said:

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.

Several Hollywood figures have already reacted to Wilder's death. Mel Brooks, who worked with him on Young Frankenstein, said, "Gene Wilder, one of the truly great talents of our time, is gone. He blessed every film we did together with his special magic and he blessed my life with his friendship. He will be so missed." Jim Carrey tweeted "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."

Wilder is survived by his wife Karen, who he married in 1991, and his daughter Katherine, who was born from a previous marriage.

I hope Gene Wilder's family is warmed by their memories of him during this time. We are certainly warmed by our memories of his great work.