Tom Foster
There are a lot more than 20 things to know about Gene Wilder, but only one is really important. The man was a legend.
His given name was Jerome Silberman
It doesn’t have the same ring as Gene Wilder, does it? Plenty of people in Hollywood change their names, but it’s interesting to discover the name they were born with.
He was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
The fun thing about some celebrities is that by learning where they come from it’s easier to relate to them. They don’t come from some magical, unknown place that produces famous people.
Gene was a stage actor to start with
Everyone has to get a start somewhere, and many actors paid their dues, so to speak, by starting simply. Gene Wilder had to build his reputation like many others.
The role as Willy Wonka catapulted him to fame
It’s not hard to imagine how this affected Gene’s career since the amount of improv he was allowed was amazing. But the fact remains that he’s still the best Wonka.
His time as a collaborator of Mel Brooks is how many remember him
It can’t be blamed since he did star in a few iconic movies that Brooks created. From Young Frankenstein to Blazing Saddles, he was a solid addition to the cast.
There were several popular films he co-wrote
Gene didn’t sit idly by, waiting for parts to come his way. He did his bit to help Hollywood become the place it is today.
He married four times
Marriage and Hollywood don’t always appear to go hand in hand since one is always hearing about divorces and short-term marriages. That’s something that’s been common in Hollywood for a long time.
Gene did have two Oscar nominations
Not every actor is going to win Oscars all the time. But a lot of actors do have a solid reputation that makes the golden statue kind of trivial.
He was really into charities
It’s nice to see actors give back to the communities that help to support them. It’s a way to earn what they have and make them appear grateful to their fans.
One of his last film roles was on the show Will & Grace
How many people ended up guest-starring on this show? There were quite a few, and yet Gene was one of those who really shone.
Gene was a talented pianist
It doesn’t sound fair that a talented actor has other talents, does it? But the truth is that a lot of actors are quite skilled in other areas apart from acting.
He did teach acting classes
This must have been one of the most interesting classes around. If not for the wisdom he could impart, then at least for the opportunity to sit in the presence of one who had accomplished so much.
Many knew him as a perfectionist
Sometimes working with perfectionists is a bit tiring, but they do demand results. Often, they get them, but in a manner that exhausts a lot of people.
There were several stage productions he took part in
A lot of actors will take to the stage before, during, and even after their Hollywood career. Some are simply addicted to acting, while others want to branch out and experience every aspect of the trade.
He was afraid of flying
This is rather common fear, and yet people continue to fly. Thank goodness for pharmaceuticals that can alleviate this panic, right?
His impact on the comedy scene is still felt
Gene was one of the many actors who could make people laugh with just a look. That’s kind of rare these days, but it’s still appreciated.
Gene was great at improv
His role as Willy Wonka is one of the greatest examples of this. Keep in mind the roll he executed was his idea, not the director’s.
Many recognize that his timing while in character was impeccable
More often than not he had the right thing to say ready and prepped when it was required. That sounds easy, but it’s something that many actors still struggle with.
His son, Jordan, followed in his footsteps
Will his son ever be as great as he was? Probably not, but it’s great to hear that his father inspired him.
Gene starred in a stage adaptation of One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest
This was a very influential story obviously, since it’s been run through multiple adaptations onstage. In the movies though, many people are still in love with Jack Nicholson’s version.