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.
"Gene Wilder touched my life, my heart and my funny bone with his unique and genius work. May he rest with peace and joy," Seinfeld star Jason Alexander said on Twitter.
British comedian Stephen Fry wrote: "Farewell #GeneWilder, comic genius. Thank you for all those happy happy hours."
Ricky Gervais quoted Wilder's most famous character, Willy Wonka, writing, "'Good Day Sir!' RIP Gene Wilder".
'Aristocrats' comedian Gilbert Gottfried posted a picture of himself with a young, dapper Wilder.
Australian actor Russell Crowe said: "I saw Blazing Saddles 7 times at the cinema with my school friends. George St. Cows outside. Gene Wilder you were a genius. Rest in Peace."
Newshub.
