Willy Wonka director Mel Stuart has died

‘Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory’ director Mel Stuart has died at the age of 83.

His family announced his passing confirming that he died at his Beverly Hills home after suffering from cancer.

The director, best known for his 1971 film ‘Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory’, made over 180 films in his career.

The film, based on the Roald Dahl book followed the story of a poor boy who wins the opportunity to tour the most eccentric and wonderful sweet factory of all.

Starring Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka and Peter Ostrum as Charlie Bucket, the film is a firm favourite amongst film fans.

He was nominated for an Oscar in 1965 for his documentary, ‘Four Days in November’, about the assassination of John F Kennedy.

He is survived by his wife, Roberta, and three children.