Gene Wilder

Gene Wilder (June 11, 1933 – August 29, 2016) was an American actor, comedian, writer, and filmmaker. He gained fame for his comedic roles and is best known for his portrayal of Willy Wonka in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971). Wilder collaborated with Mel Brooks on films such as The Producers (1967), Blazing Saddles (1974), and Young Frankenstein (1974). He also worked with Richard Pryor in movies like Silver Streak (1976), Stir Crazy (1980), See No Evil, Hear No Evil (1989), and Another You (1991). Wilder began his career on stage and made his screen debut in 1961. He received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Producers.