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Is That Really Gene Wilder's Voice in 'Wonka's The Golden Ticket'? How AI Was Used to Bring Him Back

The reality competition features 12 pairs of contestants and uses an AI-generated Gene Wilder voice with permission from his estate.

  • On Wednesday, September 23, 2026, Netflix premiered 'Wonka's the Golden Ticket,' a reality competition series inspired by the 1971 film 'Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.'
  • Twelve pairs of contestants compete in Wonka-themed challenges for a 'lifetime supply of money,' valued at approximately $3 million over 30 years.
  • Original Oompa Loompa actor Rusty Goffe, 77, reprised his role alongside his son, Ben Goffe, marking his final career performance.
  • Producers utilized an AI-generated Gene Wilder to host the series, with reviews calling the practice 'ghoulish' and 'blatantly cruel.'
  • Although Netflix obtained consent from the estate and widow Karen B Wilder, the AI narrator's presence continues to spark debate among viewers.
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ArcaMax Publishing broke the news on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.
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