Fans around the world have been left devastated this morning, as it’s been revealed that Willy Wonka star Gene Wilder sadly passed away yesterday.
The esteemed actor died to to complications relating to Alzheimer’s, aged 83.
In an emotional statement released by his family, Gene’s nephew Jordan Walker-Pearlman said, “We understand for all the emotional and physical challenges this situation presented we have been among the lucky ones — this illness-pirate, unlike in so many cases, never stole his ability to recognize those that were closest to him, nor took command of his central-gentle-life affirming core personality.
“The decision to wait until this time to disclose his condition wasn’t vanity, but more so that the countless young children that would smile or call out to him “there’s Willy Wonka,” would not have to be then exposed to an adult referencing illness or trouble and causing delight to travel to worry, disappointment or confusion. He simply couldn’t bear the idea of one less smile in the world.
“He continued to enjoy art, music, and kissing with his leading lady of the last twenty-five years, Karen. He danced down a church aisle at a wedding as parent of the groom and ring bearer, held countless afternoon movie western marathons and delighted in the the company of beloved ones.”
Irish celebs have come out in force to pay touching tributes to the much loved star, sharing their favourite memories of the actor, and their heartfelt condolences.
