gene wilder (jerome silberman; june 11, 1933 – august 29, 2016) was an american actor, author, comedian, director and screenwriter. he was most famous for his acting work and in particular for the movies he made with mel brooks which include "the producers", "blazing saddles" and "young frankenstein". he also played the part of willy wonka in the musical movie "willy wonka &amp; the chocolate factory".