Netflix Recreates Gene Wilder’s Voice Using AI For ‘The Golden Ticket’
Deadline • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Netflix will premiere The Golden Ticket, a Willy Wonka-themed reality competition series, on September 23, marking over 55 years since the original Charlie & the Chocolate Factory movie starring Gene Wilder.
- The series features AI-recreated voice of Gene Wilder, created with consent from the Wilder Estate, sparking potential controversy around AI technology use in media.
- Rusty Goffe, who played an Oompa Loompa in the 1971 film, will reprise his role, and the show involves twelve contestants facing physical, mental, and moral challenges for a “life-changing prize.”
- The nine-part series was produced in Gold Coast, Australia by Eureka Productions, following a competitive bidding process among several production companies.
- Karen B. Wilder, Gene Wilder’s wife, expressed delight that the series introduces her late husband’s iconic performance to a new generation while honoring longtime fans.
