Netflix has recreated Gene Wilder's iconic voice using artificial intelligence for its upcoming Willy Wonka-inspired competition series, Wonka's The Golden Ticket, after receiving approval from the late actor's estate. The streaming giant partnered with AI audio company ElevenLabs to digitally recreate Wilder's distinctive voice, which will guide contestants throughout the unscripted series.
The actor famously portrayed Willy Wonka in the beloved 1971 film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. Karen B. Wilder, Gene Wilder's widow, said the estate fully supported the project. "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," she said in a statement. "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 honouring the fans who have cherished it for decades."
Teaser and AI Narration
Netflix unveiled the first teaser for the series, which opens with the AI-generated narration, giving audiences their first listen to the recreated voice. The company stressed that the technology was used with the full consent and involvement of Wilder's estate. The recreation was made possible by ElevenLabs, a leading AI voice synthesis company known for its work in generating realistic speech from text.
Competition Details and Cast
Wonka's The Golden Ticket will feature 12 contestants, each accompanied by a guest, competing in a series of physical, mental and moral challenges inspired by Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The production includes elaborate sets modelled after the original 1971 film, while actor Rusty Goffe reprises his role as an Oompa Loompa. The nine-part competition series is scheduled to premiere on September 23, 2026, with a two-part finale arriving on September 30, 2026.
Netflix's Partnership with Roald Dahl Story Company
The series forms part of Netflix's expanding partnership with the Roald Dahl Story Company, which the streamer acquired in 2021. This collaboration has already produced other projects, including an animated series and a musical adaptation, and Wonka's The Golden Ticket marks the first unscripted competition series under this deal.
Ethical Debate and Industry Impact
The use of AI to recreate Wilder's voice has reignited debate over artificial intelligence in entertainment. However, the involvement and public endorsement of the actor's estate has distinguished the project from other AI recreations that have drawn criticism over consent and ethical concerns. Karen B. Wilder's statement emphasized the family's approval, noting that the technology was used "with the full consent and involvement of Gene's estate."
This project comes amid growing scrutiny of AI in Hollywood, with unions and artists raising concerns about digital replicas and voice cloning. Netflix's approach, securing estate permission and highlighting the celebratory nature of the series, may set a precedent for future AI recreations in media.
