Denise Nickerson, who spent her much of childhood and adolescent acting in various films and television shows, has passed away this morning at the age of 62. Nickerson has spent the last few days in the ICU after experiencing severe medical issues. Yesterday, her family made the decision to remove her from life support.

Nickerson is best known for her role as Violet Beauregarde in 1971’s Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Nickerson’s character is a fan favorite, remembered for breaking the rules of the factory by insisting on trying a piece of gum that turned her into a giant blueberry. In addition to Willy Wonka, Nickerson starred in Dark Shadows from 1968-1970 where she played Amy Collins and Amy Jennings. Her big break came when she got a role in the Flipper television series.
After several television and movie appearances, Nickerson retired from acting in 1978 and became a nurse. She is survived by her children and family.


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