This week, the United States lost a beloved actor and funnyman. Gene Wilder, the wild-haired star of unforgettable comedy films, died Monday at the age of 83. A family member said Wilder was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease three years ago. He said the actor kept the condition private so he would not disappoint fans. He simply couldn't bear the idea of one less smile in the world, his nephew Jordan Walker-Pearlman said. Gene Wilder started his acting career on the stage. However, millions of people knew him from his work in film. His movies with director Mel Brooks were especially famous. They included "The Producers, Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein. In a statement Monday, Brooks wrote, Gene Wilder, one of the truly great talents of our time, is gone. He blessed every film we did together with his special magic and he blessed my life with his friendship. He will be so missed. Wilder was a master at playing nervous characters trapped in impossible, but funny, situations.
