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Gene Wilder honored for contributions to Connecticut culture

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April 10, 2008

HARTFORD, Conn.—Connecticut is honoring actor and resident Gene Wilder for his cultural contributions.

Wilder gave a short speech at the state Capitol Wednesday as he was recognized at the Governor's Awards for Excellence in Culture and Tourism.

He says he was inspired to become an actor when he was 11 and saw his sister performing.

Wilder lives in Stamford and is known for supporting theaters in Fairfield County.

He played the original Willy Wonka in "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" and starred in "The Producers," "Young Frankenstein," and "Blazing Saddles."

Longtime friend and Stamford Theater Works Founder Steve Karp says Wilder has "created a legacy of screen portrayals that will keep people laughing everlastingly."

© Copyright 2008 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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