Netflix has officially revealed that its upcoming reality competition series, Wonka’s The Golden Ticket, will premiere on September 23, and one of its biggest surprises is already generating plenty of discussion. The streamer has recreated the iconic voice of Gene Wilder using artificial intelligence, allowing the legendary actor’s portrayal of Willy Wonka to guide contestants throughout the series.
According to Netflix, the AI-generated voice was created in partnership with ElevenLabs and, importantly, with the full approval of Gene Wilder’s estate. The series is inspired by both the beloved 1971 film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory and Roald Dahl’s classic novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Contestants who earn a coveted Golden Ticket will compete in a series of physical, mental, and moral challenges inside a recreation of Wonka’s magical factory.
Karen B. Wilder, speaking on behalf of the Gene Wilder estate, shared her support for 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. 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.”
The series will also feature Rusty Goffe, who portrayed one of the original Oompa Loompas in the 1971 film, adding another nostalgic connection to the beloved classic. While the use of AI to recreate performances remains a controversial topic across Hollywood, Netflix’s collaboration with Wilder’s estate is likely to be a major talking point leading up to the show’s premiere.
