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Netflix uses AI-generated Gene Wilder voice for Wonka reality competition series
Netflix's new reality show *Wonka's The Golden Ticket* enlists an artificial intelligence recreation of the late actor's voice for narration, made in collaboration with his family.
The Verge
Netflix will debut Wonka's The Golden Ticket on September 23rd, the latest entry in its growing catalog of reality competitions modeled after fictional narratives. This time, the platform is drawing from Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka universe—and tapping AI technology to bring back a familiar voice.
The AI Voice#
The show's narration features a synthetic version of Gene Wilder's voice, produced through a partnership between Netflix and ElevenLabs, an AI audio company. Netflix obtained family approval before proceeding with the voice recreation, Deadline reported. The platform has previously explored similar techniques for productions recalling Michael Caine and Stan Lee.
Competition Format#
The series frames itself as a "high-stakes social experiment" centered around 12 lucky golden ticket holders, each accompanied by a partner of their choosing. The competition unfolds over two weeks, culminating in a two-part finale on September 30th that will determine the sole winner.
The Wonka Universe Connection#
This production builds on Netflix's existing 2021 partnership with the Roald Dahl Company. It operates independently from a separate animated feature adaptation, Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory, scheduled for 2027. The reality show joins Netflix's lineup of competition series that dramatize scenarios from popular fictional works, following the model established by shows like Squid Game.
