It seems like everyone has seen “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”, and for good reason. The whimsy and life lessons in this classic movie speak to people of all ages. It was a sad day when we learned the film’s star, Gene Wilder, passed away.
On August 29th, 2016, beloved actor Gene Wilder passed away at the age of 83. In addition to his role as Willy Wonka, Wilder tickled our funny bones in multiple collaborations with Mel Brooks, and on the original production of The Producers.
Wilder started his long and illustrious Hollywood career in 1967 playing Eugene Grizzard in Bonnie and Clyde. The very next year his role in The Producers earned him an Academy Award.
But did you know Wilder did more than act? He also wrote several movies, contributed to soundtracks, and was a huge advocate promoting cancer awareness. His third wife, actress Gilda Radner, passed away from ovarian cancer at the age of 42.
After her death, Wilder helped found the Gilda Radner Ovarian Cancer Detection Center in Los Angeles and Gilda’s Club, an organization designed to help people living with cancer and their families.
Watch one of the most iconic Wilder scenes in the video below! What did you think? Leave us a comment, we’d love to hear from you!
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