It was just announced in the last few minutes that actor, Gene Wilder had passed away at age 83. Wilder is a Hollywood comedic icon, with starring roles in many Mel Brooks films like “The Producers,” “Blazing Saddles,” and “Young Frankenstein, ” as well as movies like “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” and “Stir Crazy.” His nephew announced that he passed away of complications from Alzheimer’s
His nephew went on to say that unlike most cases of Alzheimer’s, Wilder never lost his ability to recognize his loved ones and his personality was still present throughout the rest of his life.
He leaves behind a wife of of 25 years in Karen Wilder. He was previously married to comedienne/ actress, Gilda Radner, who passed away in 1989.
Over the course of his career, Wilder was nominated for two Oscars, one for his role in “The Producers” and the other for co-writing “Young Frankenstein” with Mel Brooks.