Director Mel Stuart passed away Thursday night. He was 83.

Stuart is best known for his 1971 Roald Dahl adaptation, "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory," which starred Gene Wilder as the oddball chocolatier. Despite its poor return at the box office, the film went on to become a cult classic, inspiring a generation of kids and adults with its memorable songs and colorful visuals.

Before the movie was released in theaters, Wilder sent a now famous letter to Stuart regarding Wonka's costume: "I love the main thing -- the velvet jacket -- and I mean to show by my sketch the exact same color. But I've added two large pockets to take away from the svelt, feminine line ... The hat is terrific, but making it 2 inches shorter would make it more special."

In addition to "Wonka," Stuart also directed the groundbreaking music documentary "Wattstax," which followed the legendary Wattstax music festival in Los Angeles, held in the aftermath of the city's riot. In 1965 he was nominated for an Oscar for his film "Four Days in November."

Stuart is survived by sons Andrew and Peter, and his daughter, Madeline. He died of cancer at his home in Los Angeles.

[via NY Daily News]

Earlier on Moviefone:

Loading Slideshow...

  • Peter Ostrum (Charlie Bucket)

  • Peter Ostrum (Charlie Bucket)

    After playing Charlie, Peter Ostrum quit acting, eventually becoming an veterinarian. (Yea, didn't see that one coming either).

  • Julie Cole (Veruca Salt)

  • Julie Cole (Veruca Salt)

    Her bratty turn as Veruca Salt helped launch Julie Cole's 40-year career in acting on stage, TV and film. Since "Wonka," Cole has appeared on several British programs, including "Married for Life" and "EastEnders."

  • Paris Themmen (Mike Tee Vee)

  • Paris Themmen (Mike Tee Vee)

    Since his gun-toting role as Mike Tee Vee, Paris Thermmen has appeared sporadically in films and TV programs, including a spot on "Star Trek: Voyager."

  • Denise Nickerson (Violet Beauregarde)

  • Denise Nickerson (Violet Beauregarde)

    After playing Violet, Denise had roles on several TV shows and made-for-TV films. She retired from acting at the age of 21.

  • Gene Wilder (Willy Wonka)

  • Gene Wilder (Willy Wonka)

    By the time he was cast as Wonka, Gene Wilder was already successful, having starred in Mel Brooks' "The Producers." Now far-and-away the most accomplished actor from the cast, Wilder went on to appear in films such as "Young Frankenstein," "The Frisco Kid" and "Blazing Saddles." After a guest role on "Will in Grace" in 2003, Wilder retired from acting.

  • Jack Albertson (Grandpa Joe)

    Like Wilder, Jack Albertson was a successful actor before "Wonka," starring in films such as "Son of Flubber" and "Man on a Thousand Faces." Unfortunately, Jack would pass away ten years later at the age of 74.

  • Michael Bollner (Augustus Gloop)

  • Michael Bollner (Augustus Gloop)

    "Willy Wonka" was the beginning and end of acting for Michael Bollner, who, as the candy-loving Augustus, finds himself swept up in the river of chocolate. But, hey, what a way to go out!