About
Gene Wilder, born Jerome Silberman in Milwaukee, was an American actor and screenwriter known for his roles in iconic comedies. He began in theater before breaking into film with The Producers (1967), earning an Oscar nomination. He portrayed Willy Wonka in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971) and co-wrote Young Frankenstein (1974) with Mel Brooks. He formed a famous duo with Richard Pryor in four films. After the death of his wife Gilda Radner, he co-founded Gilda's Club. He retired from acting in 2003 and focused on writing.
* 1933-06-11 — † 2016-08-28
Major works
- The Producers (1967)film
- Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)film
- Young Frankenstein (1974)film
- Kiss Me Like a Stranger (2005)memoir
- My French Whore (2007)novel
Key milestones
- 1967Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for The Producers.
- 2003Wins an Emmy Award for guest role in Will & Grace.
- 1991Co-founds Gilda's Club, a support network for people affected by cancer.
Themes
ComedyMadnessInnocenceLoss and griefCreativity
Sources: genewilderofficial.com · televisionacademy.com
