Gene Wilder, the charming star of the original Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory film, has died aged 83.
After complications from Alzheimer's disease, he died in Connecticut on Monday (local time).
The charismatic comedian was known for stealing the show in the many films he was part of. He was twice nominated for an Oscar for his parts in The Producers and Young Frankenstein, where he perfected his dewey-eyed, neurotic persona.
In 1989 Wilder was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma - a cancer in the immune system.
Celebrities around the world are paying tribute to him online.
On Twitter, British comedian Stephen Fry wrote: "Farewell #GeneWilder, comic genius. Thank you for all those happy happy hours."
Farewell #GeneWilder, comic genius. Thank you for all those happy happy hours. pic.twitter.com/O6oHS9TQqX
— Stephen Fry (@stephenfry) 29 August 2016
"Good Day Sir!"
— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) 29 August 2016
RIP Gene Wilder
RIP Gene Wilder pic.twitter.com/TuMQheQCa4
— Gilbert Gottfried (@RealGilbert) 29 August 2016
I saw Blazing Saddles 7 times at the cinema with my school friends . George St. Cows outside.
— Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) 29 August 2016
Gene Wilder you were a genius. Rest in Peace.
