Mindy Kaling tweeted about the legendary talent of Gene Wilder, and now we have a magical video of the late icon breaking on set

By Rachel sanoff

September 1, 2016

By Rachel sanoff

September 1, 2016

The entire world is mourning the loss of Gene Wilder, the comedy genius who brought Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Young Frankenstein, The Producers, and countless other films to life with his incredible talent and sparkling presence.

The entertainment world is, of course, mourning the iconic performer’s life — with many actors sharing how Gene Wilder had influenced or affected them as artists.

Gene Wilder-One of the truly great talents of our time. He blessed every film we did with his magic & he blessed me with his friendship.

— Mel Brooks (@MelBrooks) August 29, 2016

I didn't know what "acting" was. I knew what Gene Wilder was saying excited me, & had to learn it. #pureimagination pic.twitter.com/Ag9BH53XS6

— Uzo Aduba (@UzoAduba) August 29, 2016

RIP #GeneWilder I've studied this scene so many times. It's a masterclass in reacting. https://t.co/pTNfPLQKGH

— Bryan Greenberg (@bryangreenberg) August 29, 2016

This morning, comedy performer and writer Mindy Kaling tweeted out a simple question as she pondered the creative excellence possessed by the acting legend.

I bet Gene Wilder never broke during scenes, no matter how funny. Does anyone know?

— Mindy Kaling (@mindykaling) September 1, 2016

Breaking refers to when an actor starts laughing during a scene, causing them to break character. Of course, breaking was one of the most delightful parts of The Office bloopers — so Mindy knows how difficult it is to stay cool in a hilarious take. Still, if anybody was masterful enough to maintain composure no matter what, wouldn’t it be Gene Wilder?

But then Twitter user Raja Sen responded to Kaling with the most beautiful proof that even legends like Gene crack up sometimes.

He did. But magically so. https://t.co/LwPFpXIXF8

— Raja Sen (@RajaSen) September 1, 2016

“He did. But magically so.”

That laugh. #GeneWilder pic.twitter.com/63uIXKplwh

— Raja Sen (@RajaSen) August 30, 2016

The accompanying video is a compilation of Wilder breaking on the set of Young Frankenstein, with Cloris Leachman, Teri Garr, and Marty Feldman. Gene interrupts takes with an infectious and heartwarming laugh, reminding us of his extraordinary nature.