Fans Say Goodbye to the Original Willy Wonka, Actor Gene Wilder
Sad news from Hollywood, friends: Gene Wilder, who so many of us know and love as Willy Wonka, has passed away. The star of classic movies like Young Frankenstein, Blazing Saddles and The Producers as well as Stir Crazy and See No Evil, Hear No Evil, to name just a few, he was also, of course, the quirky, candy-peddling Willy Wonka himself in 1971’s Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.
Gene was not only a memorable part of so many fans’ childhoods, but a Hollywood legend who will never be forgotten. Passing away due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease, the public outpouring of grief was fast and heartfelt.
This makes me so sad one of my favourite ever films R.I.P #GeneWilder pic.twitter.com/Q9F8bx3hML
— becky rigby (@beckyl20) August 29, 2016
Bye Bye Willy Wonka, you were a part of my childhood…😢 #RIP #GeneWilder #Memories #CharlieAndTheChocolateFactory https://t.co/6j4opwOLe6
— Petra Van Hamme (@Petra_Van_Hamme) August 29, 2016
The greatest comedic mind of my childhood is now gone. #RIP #GeneWilder & thank you 4 your pure imagination. This one hits hard.
— Josh Gad (@joshgad) August 29, 2016
There will never be a better Willy Wonka. RIP #GeneWilder
— Anton Le Roy (@weenerboy) August 29, 2016
Thank you for the wonderful memories. #GeneWilder pic.twitter.com/Al8OWllSNF
— FM104 (@FM104) August 29, 2016
"Hold Your Breath. Make A Wish. Count To Three." #GeneWilder pic.twitter.com/tOETyW5azj
— Drunk Superman™ (@DrunkSuperman_) August 29, 2016
Gene Wilder received his golden ticket. Such a talented and kind actor. #GeneWilder pic.twitter.com/iRaQvtfBhP
— Lucien Désar (@LucienDesar) August 29, 2016
R.I.P. Gene. Thank you for all of the laughs and memories!
What was your favorite Gene Wilder movie? Tweet us @BritandCo!
(h/t Variety; photos via Charley Gallay/Getty, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory/WarnerBros.)
