Netflix faces backlash over AI-generated Gene Wilder voice for 'Wonka' series

Netflix is facing backlash over its new reality competition series, 'Wonka's The Golden Ticket,' which uses artificial intelligence to recreate the voice of the late actor Gene Wilder, who famously portrayed Willy Wonka in the 1971 film. The series, set to premiere on September 23, will feature 12 contestants competing in challenges within a recreated Wonka factory. While fans have expressed disapproval on social media, citing a lack of emotion and soul in the AI-generated voice, the Gene Wilder Estate, through his wife Karen B. Wilder, has given consent for the use of the technology. The estate stated they are delighted the series celebrates the warmth and imagination Wilder brought to the role, introducing that magic to a new generation. The AI voice reconstruction was handled by ElevenLabs. The series will also feature Rusty Goffe, an actor from the original 1971 film.