Netflix AI recreation of Gene Wilder's voice for Wonka show sparks backlash
In a new reality series titled Wonka's The Golden Ticket, Netflix plans to utilize AI technology to replicate the voice of the late Gene Wilder, who famously portrayed Willy Wonka in the 1971 film. This initiative has been approved by his estate, following Wilder's passing in 2016. ElevenLabs, an AI audio company, will handle the voice reproduction. Wilder's widow, Karen B. Wilder, expressed her joy that the series honors his imaginative portrayal, although some fans have criticized the choice, labeling it as 'disrespectful' and 'a plastic substitute.' Comparisons have been made to the unsuccessful 'Willy's Chocolate Experience' event in Glasgow in 2024. The show aims to bring Roald Dahl's beloved story to life, featuring contestants facing various challenges for a grand prize. Experts like Jocelyn Burnham suggest studios are gauging audience reactions, noting that beloved voices attract heightened scrutiny.
Key facts
- Netflix will use AI to recreate Gene Wilder's voice for reality series Wonka's The Golden Ticket.
- The voice is replicated by AI audio firm ElevenLabs.
- Wilder's estate consented to the use of his voice after his death in 2016.
- Karen B. Wilder, Gene Wilder's wife, expressed delight at the series.
- Some fans criticized the AI recreation as 'disrespectful' and 'a plastic substitute'.
- Comparisons were made to the failed 'Willy's Chocolate Experience' event in Glasgow in 2024.
- The show will feature contestants in challenges based on Roald Dahl's book.
- Jocelyn Burnham noted studios are testing audience acceptance of AI recreations.
Entities
Artists
- Gene Wilder
- James Earl Jones
- Roald Dahl
- Sir Michael Parkinson
Institutions
- Netflix
- ElevenLabs
- Disney
Locations
- Glasgow
- United Kingdom