Gene Wilder passes away at the age of 83

Image from Snopes

By Darian Scalamoni

            It has been a tough year for the loss of entertainment icons that have made us smile on multiple occasions, unfortunately, we’ve lost another. Yesterday, Gene Wilder, the comedic legend and star of tremendous films like Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, The Producers and Blazing Saddles, died at the age of 83. It was reported by his nephew that he died from complications of Alzheimer’s disease.

            His nephew said in a statement, “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.”

            The comic actor was nominated for two Academy Awards for The Producers and a screenplay nomination that was shared with Mel Brooks for Young Frankenstein. His legendary neurotic persona within the movies led to him working with some of the best directors of all-time like Brooks and Woody Allen in the 70s. Wilder was a larger than life personality that will be missed greatly by anyone he influenced with his comedic style and virtuoso. He also will be known for sharing the screen with another comedy legend, Richard Pryor on multiple occasions in films like Silver Streak, Stir Crazy and Another You.

            From all of us here at Cinema Wave, we send our condolences to Wilder’s family and friends. We will always remember you as the candy man, Mr. Wilder. May you rest in peace.