A golden ticket for AI: Netflix re-creates Gene Wilder’s voice for new ‘Willy Wonka’ show

Culture & TrendsA golden ticket for AI: Netflix re-creates Gene Wilder’s voice for new ‘Willy Wonka’ showThe streamer said it received the consent of the late actor’s estate for its new competition series, which will debut in September.Listen to this article with a free profile00:0000:00Gene Wilder in the lead role in the 1971 film "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory."Entertainment Pictures / Zuma Press Wire via Reuters ConnextShareAdd NBC News to GoogleJune 30, 2026, 6:16 PM EDTBy Angela YangCall it pure AI-magination. Limited time: Save 25% on NBC News subscriptionGet exclusive reporting, live Q&As and ad-free reading.On Tuesday, Netflix unveiled the trailer for its new Willy Wonka-themed competition show, which features a re-creation of Gene Wilder’s voice. Wilder, who died in 2016 at age 83, was known for his role as the eccentric candy man in the 1971 children’s favorite “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.”“Wonka’s The Golden Ticket,” which premieres on Netflix on Sept. 23, will follow 12 contestants as they navigate a series of challenges inside Wonka’s Chocolate Factory for the chance at one grand prize.“A whole new generation of real-life Golden Ticket holders will compete for a life-changing prize or say a most unfortunate goodbye,” the AI-generated voice of Wilder says in a voiceover for the trailer. “Marvel at the magic you remember and delight in my newest wonders beyond imagination. The most extraordinary competition on Earth is about to begin.” Karen Wilder, Wilder’s wife, said his estate is “delighted” that the show will be “introducing that magic to a new generation while honoring the fans who have cherished it for decades.”“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 provided by Netflix.The project is a partnership between Netflix and the AI voice generation compan...