LGBT Comics Say Goodbye to Gene Wilder

With the death of Gene Wilder, the world lost a man who was more than a great comedic actor; his humanity shone through in his performances in all his films, such as Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and several Mel Brooks movies (The Producers, Young Frankenstein, Blazing Saddles).

His eccentric comic performances and personal style have long given inspiration to his LGBT fans. Several LGBT comedians tweeted today to reminisce, mourn, and say goodbye to a legend.

\u201cGene Wilder passed away. Wow what a lovely career. Wonka, Dr. Frankenstein, Jim the Waco Kid... Sending strength to his wife of 25 yrs. #RIP\u201d
— Neil Patrick Harris (@Neil Patrick Harris) 1472510890

\u201cI imagine someone telling Taylor Swift Gene Wilder died & she's like "Who?" & then they tell her he played Willy Wonka & she passes out\u201d
— billy eichner (@billy eichner) 1472505748

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\u201cRIP Gene Wilder. You're a comedy legend if one of your minor triumphs is marrying Gilda Radner.\u201d
— Louis Virtel (@Louis Virtel) 1472500351

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\u201cHe was always able to make us smile, and that is no small feat. Rest with the stars, Gene Wilder.\u201d
— George Takei (@George Takei) 1472501279

\u201cHeaven before Gene Wilder arrived. RIP.\u201d
— Louis Virtel (@Louis Virtel) 1472500988

\u201cRIP Gene Wilder. Willy Wonka is a gay icon: an eccentric fop who quotes Oscar Wilde and serves devastating shade.\u201d
— Louis Virtel (@Louis Virtel) 1472500232