Netflixs Wonka reality show will use AI-generated voice of Gene Wilder

Published: Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at 9:49 am

Netflix is set to launch a new reality competition series, "Wonka's The Golden Ticket," inspired by "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory." The show will feature twelve pairs of adult contestants navigating a series of challenges designed to test them physically, mentally, and morally. The series promises a more intense and potentially treacherous experience than the original story, with only one individual ultimately winning a significant prize.

A notable aspect of the production is Netflix's use of artificial intelligence to recreate the voice of the late Gene Wilder, who famously portrayed Willy Wonka in the 1971 film. The AI-generated voice, developed in collaboration with AI company ElevenLabs, is featured in the show's teaser trailer. Netflix states that this initiative has the approval of Wilder's estate, with his wife expressing that it "celebrates the warmth and imagination that he brought to the role."

However, the decision to use AI to replicate Wilder's voice has ignited controversy and drawn sharp criticism online. This follows a trend of similar controversies surrounding the use of AI to revive deceased actors' likenesses in other productions. Recent examples include the film "As Deep as the Grave," which faced backlash for its use of an AI deepfake of Val Kilmer, and the "Alien" franchise's use of generative AI to bring back Sir Ian Holm. Critics argue that even with estate approval, using AI to create performances for deceased actors raises ethical concerns about consent, personhood, and the potential for creating performances the actors themselves might not have agreed to. Social media reactions have labeled the use of Wilder's AI voice as "digital necromancy," with many expressing that it is disrespectful to the actor's legacy and that talented living voice actors could have been utilized instead.

"Wonka's The Golden Ticket" is scheduled to premiere on Netflix on September 23rd.

BNN's Perspective: The use of AI to replicate the voices of deceased actors, even with the consent of their estates, presents a complex ethical dilemma. While it can be seen as a way to honor a performer's legacy and introduce their iconic presence to new audiences, it also raises questions about artistic integrity and the potential for exploitation. Finding a balance that respects the deceased while also embracing technological advancements will be crucial as this practice becomes more prevalent.

Tags: Netflix, Wonka's The Golden Ticket, Gene Wilder, AI-generated voice, reality competition, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, Roald Dahl, Oompa Loompa, Rusty Goffe, ElevenLabs, Val Kilmer, deepfake, ethical concerns, consent, deceased actors, digital necromancy

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