Gene Wilder, star of Willy Wonka, dies aged 83

Gene Wilder, best known for his iconic role as Willy Wonka in 1971’s Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, has sadly passed away. He died early Monday morning at his home in Stamford, Connecticut, as a result of complications from Alzheimer’s disease, his family has confirmed. He was aged 83.

The American actor also appeared in comedic classics The Producers, Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein, amongst many other films.

Tributes have been pouring out on social media, with Mel Brooks and Jim Carrey offering some very touching thoughts:

Gene Wilder-One of the truly great talents of our time. He blessed every film we did with his magic & he blessed me with his friendship.

— Mel Brooks (@MelBrooks) August 29, 2016

Gene Wilder was one of the funniest and sweetest energies ever to take a human form. If there's a heaven he has a Golden Ticket. ;^)

— Jim Carrey (@JimCarrey) August 29, 2016