Birth of Gene Wilder

Gene Wilder was born on 11 June 1933 in Milwaukee. An American actor, comedian and director, Wilder was famous for his wild-eyed, intense performances and gentle manner. He made his film breakthrough in Bonnie and Clyde, and went on to star in Mel Brooks's The Producers, for which he was nominated for an Academy Award, Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein, which he co-wrote. He played the title role in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, and teamed up with Richard Pryor in Silver Streak and Stir Crazy. His wife Gilda Radner died of ovarian cancer, and he became an advocate for cancer awareness. He later wrote novels and memoirs.

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