Netflix faces backlash over AI recreated Gene Wilder voice in new ‘Wonka’ series

Netflix has sparked widespread debate after confirming it will use artificial intelligence to recreate the voice of the late Gene Wilder for its upcoming reality competition series Wonka's The Golden Ticket.

The streaming platform announced that the series will feature an AI generated version of Wilder's distinctive voice, recreated with the permission of his estate. Wilder famously portrayed Willy Wonka in the beloved 1971 film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, a performance that remains one of the most celebrated in cinema history.

The actor died in 2016, but Netflix said the new production aims to honour his legacy while introducing a fresh competition inspired by Roald Dahl's classic story. AI audio company ElevenLabs has been used to recreate the voice for the series.

According to Netflix, Wonka's The Golden Ticket will place contestants inside a world inspired by the original tale, where they will face a series of imaginative temptations and challenges before competing for a grand prize. The recreated narration is intended to evoke the spirit of Wilder's memorable portrayal rather than replace it with a new performer.

Karen B Wilder, Gene Wilder's widow, publicly supported the project, saying she was delighted that the programme celebrates the imagination and warmth her husband brought to the role. Her approval has become a central part of Netflix's defence of the decision.

Despite the estate's consent, the announcement quickly generated criticism across social media. Some viewers argued that iconic performances should remain untouched, even when permission has been granted. Several described the AI recreation as unnecessary, while others said it lacked the emotional quality that made Wilder's original performance so memorable.

One of the most common complaints centred on the sound of the recreated voice, with critics claiming it still carried the artificial tone often associated with AI generated speech. Others jokingly compared the announcement with the infamous 2024 Glasgow event known as Willy's Chocolate Experience, which became an internet sensation after failing to deliver the magical attraction that had been advertised.

The controversy arrives as entertainment companies continue exploring artificial intelligence for creative projects. Recent years have seen studios use AI and digital technology to preserve or recreate the voices of well known performers, often with the support of their families or estates. One notable example was the authorised recreation of James Earl Jones' voice for Darth Vader, allowing future productions to maintain the character's familiar sound.

Experts say there are still no universally accepted standards governing how audiences respond to AI recreations of performers. Jocelyn Burnham, who researches artificial intelligence in arts and culture, suggested studios are effectively testing public opinion with each new project. She noted that beloved actors and iconic roles are likely to attract the greatest scrutiny because audiences have strong emotional connections to the original performances.