DHAKA: US actor Gene Wilder, famous for his lead role in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, has died at the age of 83.

His family confirmed this on Monday (August 29).

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

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

The actor died in Stamford, Connecticut, due to complications from Alzheimer's disease, BBC reports.

Wilder first made waves on Broadway before transitioning to the silver screen for a brief role as a kidnapped undertaker in Bonnie and Clyde (1967).

In 1971, he took on the role of one of his most beloved characters, Willy Wonka, in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.

Wilder’s other well-known roles included the Waco Kid in the 1974 cult classic Blazing Saddles and Doctor Ross in Woody Allen's 1972 film, Everything You Wanted to Know About Sex* But Were Afraid to Ask.

BDST: 1512 HRS, AUG 30, 2016
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