Gene Wilder has passed away, age 83

Legendary actor of stage and screen, Gene Wilder, has passed away at the age of 83.

The world was just saddened to hear that legendary actor, Gene Wilder, has passed away. The actor has been battling Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma since his diagnosis on 1989 following the passing of his wife, SNL alumni, Gilda Radner, which led to his retirement from the industry.

Wilder is best known for his comedic roles such as Mel Brook's 'Young Frankenstein' and 'Blazing Saddles', his recurring team-ups with the late Richard Pryor in films like 'See No Evil, Hear No Evil' and 'Stir Crazy', as well as the globally beloved adaptation of 'Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory'. Over the last decade, he has made only the occasional appearance on shows like 'Will & Grace', 'Yo Gabba Gabba', and the TV movie, 'Alice in Wonderland' in 1999.

Long-time friend and collaborator, Mel Brooks, recently issued a statement in regards to his passing:

Gene Wilder was most recently in talks with director, Steven Spielberg, to be featured in his upcoming adaptation of the sci-fi video game based novel, 'Ready Player One' with Simon Pegg, but it seems that will no longer be possible. The world, however, will mourn the loss of the comedic titan and forever indulge in the success and love he brought to all of us.

RIP Mr. Wilder. You will be sorely missed.

[Variety]