Legendary film star Gene Wilder has died at the age of 83. According to various reports, Wilder died Monday, August 29, 2016 at his home in Stamford, Conn. from complications of Alzheimer’s Disease.
Wilder’s nephew, Jordan Walker-Pearlman said in an official 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.
He continued to enjoy art, music, and kissing with his leading lady of the last twenty-five years, Karen. He danced down a church aisle at a wedding as parent of the groom and ring bearer, held countless afternoon movie western marathons and delighted in the the company of beloved ones.”
Wilder was best known for his iconic roles as Willy Wonka in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, his two Oscar nominations for Young Frankenstein and The Producers, as well as such other memorable performances in Blazing Saddles and Stir Crazy, just to name a few.
On behalf of all of us here at Nerd Nation, we would like to offer our deepest condolences to Mr. Wilder’s family, friends, and fans in this difficult time. May you forever rest in peace, Mr. Wilder, and thank you.
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-Nerd Nation Staff
@NerdNationPress
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