Netflix has faced backlash for using artificial intelligence to recreate the voice of late actor Gene Wilder in its upcoming reality series Wonka's The Golden Ticket. The trailer, released on July 1, 2026, features a voiceover that closely resembles Wilder's iconic portrayal of Willy Wonka from the 1971 film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. Wilder died in 2016 at the age of 83.
Backlash from fans
Viewers quickly took to social media to express their displeasure, accusing Netflix of using AI without permission. 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 a AI Gene Wilder," while a third added: "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 confirmed that it has obtained consent from Wilder's estate to use his recreated voice. Wilder's wife, Karen B Wilder, released 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."
Details of the series
Wonka's The Golden Ticket is a reality competition series where contestants enter the renowned chocolate factory and undertake challenges. The trailer shows participants looking shocked as the voiceover declares: "A whole new generation of real-life golden ticketholder will compete for a life-changing prize, or say a most unfortunate goodbye." The series is set to launch on September 23, 2026.
The original Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was published in 1964 by Roald Dahl, who also wrote classics such as Matilda, The Twits, and James and the Giant Peach. Netflix acquired The Roald Dahl Story Company in 2021.
Upcoming animated feature
Earlier in 2026, Netflix announced a forthcoming animated feature titled Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory, scheduled for release in 2027. The voice cast includes Heartstopper star Kit Connor as the lead, along with filmmaker Taika Waititi. The film is directed by Jared Stern and Elaine Bogan, known for The Lego Batman Movie and Spirit Untamed. The synopsis reveals that Willy Wonka has been imprisoned for turning a child into a blueberry, and upon release, he returns to his factory to bring sweetness to a bitter world. Teenager Charlie Paley and his friends plan to break into the factory to steal a priceless Wonka Bar and save their homes from demolition.
