Actor Gene Wilder dies at 83

30 Aug – Gene Wilder, the actor who was best known for his portrayal of Willy Wonka in "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory" (1971), has died at the age of 83.

His family has confirmed that the actor died late on Sunday at his home in Stamford, Connecticut, from complications of Alzheimer's disease.

"It is with indescribable sadness and blues, but with spiritual gratitude for the life lived, that I announce the passing of husband, parent, and universal artist Gene Wilder," Wilder's nephew, Jordan Walker-Pearlman said in a statement obtained by The Guardian.

The actor was diagnosed with the disease three years ago but kept his condition private from the public.

Apart from being synonymous with the character from the Roald Dahl's novel, Wilder also played unforgettable roles such as the neurotic accountant in "The Producers" and also the mad scientist of "Young Frankenstein", which both got him nominated for Best Supporting Actor and Best Adapted Screenplay respectively.

His character as Willy Wonka also earned him a Golden Globe nomination for best actor in a musical or comedy.