Netflix has unveiled a new reality show titled Wonka's The Golden Ticket, based on the 1971 film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. The trailer features a voiceover that closely mimics the late Gene Wilder, who portrayed Willy Wonka in the original film. Wilder passed away in 2016 at age 83.
AI Voiceover Sparks Outrage
The voiceover, which many viewers believe was generated using artificial intelligence, announces: 'A whole new generation of real-life golden ticketholders will compete for a life-changing prize, or say a most unfortunate goodbye. Marvel at the magic you remember, and delight in my newest wonders beyond imagination... The most extraordinary competition on earth is about to begin. There's no turning back now.'
Fans quickly took to social media to express their displeasure. One user on X wrote: 'It almost sounds like Gene Wilder, but not really and is a plastic substitute that people will eat up because the robots have made them stupid. This is an obscenity.' Another commented: 'Ain't no way they ruining one of my favourite movies of all time with a show and AI Gene Wilder.' A third posted: 'I'm sure Gene Wilder who died 10 years ago gave his permission to use his voice for AI slop.'
Netflix Confirms Estate Consent
Despite the backlash, Netflix has confirmed that it obtained consent from Wilder's estate to use the recreated voice. Wilder's wife, Karen B Wilder, issued a statement on behalf of the Gene Wilder Estate: 'More than five decades after Gene brought Willy Wonka to life, people of all ages and backgrounds around the world continue to find joy, laughter and inspiration in his performance. Gene had a remarkable ability to bring humor, wonder and heart into people's lives, and that connection has endured for generations. We are delighted that Wonka's The Golden Ticket celebrates the warmth and imagination that he brought to the role, introducing that magic to a new generation while honoring the fans who have cherished it for decades.'
Show Details and Premiere Date
The reality series invites contestants to enter the iconic factory and tackle a series of challenges. The trailer shows a group of participants looking visibly shocked, and confirms the series will premiere on September 23. The show draws inspiration from Roald Dahl's 1964 book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which follows a poverty-stricken boy who wins a tour of Wonka's factory, witnessing four other spoiled children meet gruesome fates.
Netflix's Roald Dahl Universe
Netflix acquired The Roald Dahl Story Company in 2021, gaining rights to Dahl's catalog. Earlier this year, Netflix announced an upcoming animated feature titled Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory, scheduled for 2027. The voice cast includes Heartstopper star Kit Connor and comedic actor Taika Waititi. The film is directed by Jared Stern and Elaine Bogan, known for The Lego Batman Movie and Spirit Untamed. The synopsis reveals a new twist: Willy Wonka has been imprisoned for turning a child into a blueberry, and upon release, he faces off against a group of modern kids led by Charlie Paley.
Reach Plc has reached out to Netflix for further comment.
