Netflix will use AI to recreate Gene Wilder's voice for a new Wonka reality show.
The estate approved it, and his wife supports the move.
The show premieres September 23.
What happened
Netflix is making a competition reality show based on Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, and it will use AI to recreate Gene Wilder's voice for the titular character. The show, Wonka's The Golden Ticket, premieres on Netflix on September 23.
Why it matters
This decision comes after Wilder's death in 2016, and his estate has given permission for the AI-generated voice. The Hollywood Reporter reports that his wife, Karen B. Wilder, who manages his estate, has supported the move, saying it celebrates his performance and introduces it to a new generation.
What to watch
The show features 12 golden ticket winners who must navigate Wonka's games, tests, and temptations. The sets are inspired by the 1971 movie, and the trailer gives a taste of what to expect.
Ask the AI about this article →
The decision to use AI to recreate Gene Wilder's voice raises questions about consent and legacy, especially since Wilder passed away before AI became widely used in entertainment. While his family has approved this use, it highlights how AI is increasingly being used to bring back the voices of deceased performers. This show is a competition reality series based on the 1971 film, with 12 contestants facing challenges inspired by the movie. The premiere date is set for September 23, and the trailer already offers a glimpse of what viewers can expect. The family's support, as expressed by Karen B. Wilder, suggests a positive intent to honor Wilder's memory, but it also underscores the ongoing debate about the ethics of using AI to recreate a person's likeness after death.
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