Another Hollywood legend has passed away at the age of 83, and he’s likely to be someone you’ve watched while growing up.
Gene Wilder’s family confirmed that the actor died today due to complications from Alzheimer’s. He’s best known for his 1971 role as Willy Wonka, as well as Mel Brooks comedies like Young Frankenstein and Blazing Saddles.
He was also an author and an ovarian cancer activist. He began raising awareness for the disease after the death of his wide Gilda Radner in 1989.
Tributes from Wilder’s many friends also came coming in:
RIP to the legendary Gene Wilder. 2016 has been painful so far. pic.twitter.com/7nbqY7Unva
— Zach Braff (@zachbraff) August 29, 2016
RIP #GeneWilder absolute master. Brilliant in so many ways. His life’s work is timeless and everlasting. pic.twitter.com/hYHYk8hm4h
— John Cena (@JohnCena) August 29, 2016
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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
Farewell #GeneWilder, comic genius. Thank you for all those happy happy hours. pic.twitter.com/O6oHS9TQqX
— Stephen Fry (@stephenfry) August 29, 2016