Production has officially begun on a biopic about the legendary actor and director. Gene Wilder : Dito Montiel received the directing rights from Wilder's heirs.
Wilder is best known for his roles in films «Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory» и «Young Frankenstein. The award-winning actor has collaborated frequently with Richard Pryor, co-author of the script the film "Blazing Saddles", although their relationship was not easy. Wilder was also married to Gilde Radner, one of the first actresses SNL on NBC. After Radner's death from ovarian cancer a few years after their wedding, Wilder became an active advocate for cancer research, even testifying before Congress.
Deadline reported that "the biopic will explore the man behind the iconic roles, tracing his journey from a shy young stage actor to one of cinema's most distinctive comedic voices, while also exploring the personal struggles, relationships, and challenges that shaped both his life and work." This exploration promises to provide a deeper understanding of Wilder's legacy, something Wilder's estate aspires to achieve.
Montiel, best known for the film "A Guide to Recognizing Saints", said of the decision: "Gene Wilder was one of those rare people who was somehow both funnier and sadder than everyone else in the room... I couldn't say no." Producer Aimee Schoof commented: "Dito has a unique ability to combine comedy and complexity in a single frame without flinching. We are thrilled that he will be directing this film.".
The project continues to gain momentum since its development was announced last year, as reported by Deadline in November 2025. The script is being written Jeremy Roth and Montiel. Roth is best known for his work on such series as «How I Met Your Father» и «"Love, Victor.". The production will be produced by Intrinsic Value Films and its team, which includes Shuf, Eisen Robbins и Megan Freels Johnston.
As for future plans, there have been no casting announcements so far. Many online speculate that Wilder will be cast. Jeremy Allen White due to the striking similarity between their facial features, but nothing has been confirmed. The actor is best known for the film "The Bear", for his role as Carmen Berzatto, for which he received two Emmy Awards. White previously starred in the biopic «Springsteen: Deliver Me from the Wasteland» as Bruce Springsteen.
This article was originally published in Men's Journal on June 1, 2026, in the News section. Add Men's Journal to your list of preferred sources by clicking here.