The US actor remembered by many for his lead role in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Gene Wilder, died at the age of 83, the actor's family confirmed.

According to his family, the actor died on Sunday in Stamford, Connecticut, due to complications from Alzheimer's disease.

Jordan Walker-Pearlman, Wilder’s nephew, said in a statement, that, “It is with indescribable sadness and blues, but with spiritual gratitude for the life lived, that I announce the passing of husband, parent, and universal artist Gene Wilder.”

“He simply couldn’t bear the idea of one less smile in the world,” Walker-Pearlman said.

The comic actor was also starred in classic films like Blazing Saddles, The Producers and Young Frankenstein.

He frequently collaborated with writer and director Mel Brooks as well as stand-up comedian Richard Pryor.

Willy Wonka earned him a Golden Globe for best actor in a comedy. He was nominated for an Academy Award for the 1968 classic The Producers and also for his work on the script of Young Frankenstein in 1974.

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Nandini