Star of Willy Wonka and several Mel Brooks films Gene Wilder had died at the age of 83. The actor who starred in comic films such as The Producers had been secretly suffering from Alzheimer’s disease passed away surrounded by his family at his home in Connecticut. It is reported that he kept the disease from his fans as he ‘couldn’t bear the thought of one less smile in the world.’
In a statement released by his family, they said that he didn’t want to speak of his illness to avoid disappointment. ‘The decision to wait until this time to disclose his condition wasn’t vanity, but more so that the countless young children 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.’
Tributes have poured in for the actor from the world of showbusiness, entertainment and politics. Mel Brooks described the star as one of the greats. He said ‘Gene Wilder – One of the truly great talents of our time. He blessed every film we did with his magic and he blessed me with his friendship.’