2026-07-01 11:00:32

Netflix has recreated the voice of the late Gene Wilder using artificial intelligence for its upcoming Willy Wonka-inspired reality series, Wonka’s The Golden Ticket.

The streaming giant partnered with AI voice specialist ElevenLabs and the Gene Wilder Estate to digitally revive the actor’s distinctive performance as Willy Wonka, more than 50 years after he starred in the 1971 classic Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory.

Wilder, who died in 2016 aged 83, provides the narration for the show’s first trailer through AI-generated speech.

In the preview, the recreated voice tells contestants: “A whole new generation of real-life golden ticket holders 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.”

The series premieres on September 23 and follows 12 Golden Ticket winners, each accompanied by a partner of their choice, as they compete in a series of challenges inspired by the famous chocolate factory. One contestant will ultimately claim the grand prize.

The production also reunites audiences with Rusty Goffe, who reprises his role as an Oompa Loompa from the original film.

Karen B. Wilder, Gene Wilder’s widow, welcomed the project.

She said: “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 humour, wonder and heart into people’s lives, and that connection has endured for generations.”

Wilder is the latest late Hollywood star to be digitally recreated using artificial intelligence. Similar technology has previously been used to recreate or preserve the likenesses of actors including Carrie Fisher, Harold Ramis and Paul Walker.

The announcement also marks another chapter in the enduring popularity of Roald Dahl’s eccentric chocolatier. Since Wilder’s acclaimed performance, the character has been portrayed by Johnny Depp and Timothée Chalamet.

The Wonka franchise was also thrust back into the spotlight in 2024 following the widely criticised Glasgow “Wonka experience”, which went viral after visitors described the attraction as “shambolic” and “terrible” because it failed to match its promotional material.

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