Gene Wilder, known for his starring roles in "Willy Wonka" and "Blazing Saddles" passed away at the age of 83 due to complications Alzheimer's disease. Wilder's nephew confirmed the news to the Associated Press. He was diagnosed in 1999 with non-Hodgkins lymphoma, which was treated with stem cell transplants and radiation.
Wilder starred alongside late actor Richard Pryor in a host of movies, including "Stir Crazy," "See No Evil, Hear No Evil," and "Blazing Saddles," cementing themselves as a powerhouse comedic duo. Aside from "Blazing Saddles," Gene in several Mel Brooks movies, including "The Producers," which nabbed him an Oscar nomination.
Wilder is survived by his wife, Karen, whom he married in 1991.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
