Though many heartfelt tributes have been paid to Gene Wilder since the announcement of his death on Monday, it is a particular treat to hear the actor speak about his legacy firsthand. Today, Conan O’Brien released a video of Wilder doing just that on Late Night, writing on Twitter, “It was a true honor to talk to Gene Wilder. He was an unusually brilliant and sweet comic artist.†Wilder, who made the appearance a decade ago to promote his autobiography Kiss Me Like a Stranger: My Search for Love and Art, spoke about all of his greatest hits (Willy Wonka, Young Frankenstein, Blazing Saddles), while divulging thoughtful details about working with his frequent collaborators, Mel Brooks and Richard Pryor. Perhaps the sweetest portion, however, is when he talks about children’s reaction to him and his obvious delight in their recognition.
