Gene Wilder (Jerome Silberman, 11 June 1933, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA - 26 August 2016 Stamford, Connecticut, USA), was an American actor, director, and writer. Raised in a Jewish family, Wilder developed an interest in acting after his mother was diagnosed with a heart condition and her doctor suggested he make her laugh. This advice deeply influenced Wilder, who found in acting and comedy a way to cope with life's challenges. After studying acting at the University of Iowa and the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School in England, Wilder began his career on Broadway before moving to film.

Interests

Wilder was passionate about writing and art. He authored several books, including novels and memoirs. He was also an advocate for ovarian cancer awareness, a cause close to his heart following the death of his third wife, actress Gilda Radner, from the disease. Wilder dedicated himself to raising public awareness and funds for research.

Major Films

"Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory" (1971): His portrayal of the mysterious and eccentric Willy Wonka became iconic, capturing the imagination of generations of viewers.

"Young Frankenstein" (1974): In this comedy classic, Wilder co-wrote and starred as Dr. Frederick Frankenstein. The film became a cult favorite for its humor and originality.

"Blazing Saddles" (1974): This Western parody showcased Wilder's comedic talent and his ability to satirize film genres.

"The Woman in Red" (1984): In addition to acting, Wilder directed and wrote this romantic film, demonstrating his versatility in the film world.

 Filmography

Actor:

1967 - "Bonnie and Clyde" (Arthur Penn)

1968 - "The Producers" (Mel Brooks)

1970 - "Start the Revolution Without Me" (Bud Yorkin)

1970 - "Quackser Fortune Has a Cousin in the Bronx" (Waris Hussein)

1971 - "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory" (Mel Stuart)

1972 - "Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex* (*But Were Afraid to Ask)" (Woody Allen)

1974 - "Blazing Saddles" (Mel Brooks)

1974 - "Young Frankenstein" (Mel Brooks)

1975 - "The Adventure of Sherlock Holmes' Smarter Brother" (Gene Wilder)

1976 - "Silver Streak" (Arthur Hiller)

1977 - "The World's Greatest Lover" (Gene Wilder)

1979 - "The Frisco Kid" (Robert Aldrich)

1980 - "Stir Crazy" (Sidney Poitier)

1982 - "Hanky Panky" (Sidney Poitier)

1984 - "The Woman in Red" (Gene Wilder)

1986 - "Haunted Honeymoon" (Gene Wilder)

1989 - "See No Evil, Hear No Evil" (Arthur Hiller)

1990 - "Funny About Love" (Leonard Nimoy)

1991 - "Another You" (Maurice Phillips)

Director:

1975 - "The Adventure of Sherlock Holmes' Smarter Brother"

1977 - "The World's Greatest Lover"

1984 - "The Woman in Red"

1986 - "Haunted Honeymoon"

Awards:

Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for "The Producers" (1968)

Golden Globe nominations for his roles in "The Producers" and "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory"