Mel Stuart (born Stuart Solomon; September 2, 1928 – August 9, 2012) was an American director and producer who is known for directing such movies as; "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory", "Two is a Happy Number", and "". Stuart's career would span for nearly 37 years which started in 1963 until his retirement in 2000. Stuart was born on September 2, 1928 in New York City, New York. Stuart was never married and had no children. He was related to late TV producer David L. Wolper. Stuart died on August 9, 2012 in his Beverly Hills, California home from cancer, he was 83 years old. Stuart's first cousin was Stan Lee.