Gene Wilder

Served in: U.S. Army
Rank: E-1
Best Known For: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Est. Net Worth: $20 million

Gene Wilder was a beloved American actor, singer, songwriter, and author, best known for his role as Willy Wonka. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1956 and served for two years. He first tasted military life at the age of 15. He served as a medic in the Department of Psychiatry and Neurology at Valley Forge Army Hospital.

Wilder’s interest in acting began at age 8 when his mother was ill, and the doctor prescribed her laughter. He first performed in front of a paying audience at the age of 5. He then began his career on stage, where he made his debut in a TV series, The Play of The Week. His first role was of a Hostage in a 1967 motion picture.