Even when battling a debilitating disease, Gene Wilder's family still thought of the children who knew of his famous character in "Willy Wonka." The actor, who died on Aug. 29 at the age of 83, didn't reveal to the public that he was suffering from Alzheimer's disease. This fact was only made known after news of his passing surfaced.
Gene Wilder's family said in a statement that the decision to keep his condition was so that children will not associate "Willy Wonka" with Alzheimer's disease. He didn't want to sadden the children, nor have them feel "worry, disappointment or confusion," per Variety.
Gene Wilder played Willy Wonka in the 70s and the movie has become a beloved children's classics. According to NPR, decades after the film's release, countless of children continue to watch the movie and learn of Gene Wilder.
The kids who starred in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory pay tribute to the "mad" and "talented" Gene Wilder https://t.co/kUklgRnmFa
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) August 30, 2016
The actor's nephew, Jordan Walker-Pearlman, told the media outlet that Gene Wilder would still be recognized at restaurants by kids and parents even up until two years ago. "They always had that smile, that look of wonder," Walker-Pearlman said. "And he would never want to take that look of wonder away from them."
Gene Wilder's long and illustrious career earned him two Oscar nominations for "The Producers" and "Young Frankenstein," as well as a Golden Globe nomination for "Willy Wonka." He won an Emmy award for his work in the TV series "Will & Grace" and have also graced the stage on Broadway.
Gene Wilder is also famous for his tandem with actress Gilda Radner, whom he married in the 80s. Radner died of ovarian cancer in 1989, which left the actor utterly devastated. He is survived by fourth wife Karen Boyer Webb, whom he married in 1991. He had an adopted daughter, Katherine, from his second marriage to Mary Joan Schutz.
