Gene Wilder’s voice is guiding contestants through Netflix’s new chocolate factory competition, nearly a decade after the actor’s death. The recreation has the blessing of his widow, but it is also stirring a difficult question for fans: Can an artificial voice bring back the magic of his Willy Wonka?
Wonka’s The Golden Ticket premiered Sept. 23. The reality series sends 12 Golden Ticket winners and a partner of each winner’s choosing into a sprawling factory filled with games, temptations and familiar sights from the 1971 film. Wilder does not appear on screen; a recreated version of his voice serves as the show’s unseen Wonka. Viewers can hear it in Netflix’s official trailer. (Netflix Tudum)
Netflix says Wilder’s estate consented to the recreation. His widow, Karen B. Wilder, publicly welcomed the series on the estate’s behalf, saying she hoped it would introduce a new generation to the warmth and imagination he brought to the role. According to Netflix’s account of the production, Karen also provided old recordings and audiobooks to help the team develop the voice. (Netflix Tudum)
That approval has not settled the debate. Some critics found the artificial performance unsettling despite the estate’s involvement. In its review, NME argued that the show was missing the spirit that made Wilder’s Wonka memorable. (nme.com)
RadarOnline reported that unnamed sources described Wilder’s loved ones as “devastated” by the backlash. That account should be kept separate from the estate’s public position: Karen has spoken in support of the show, and no named family member was quoted in the report reversing that stance.
The production goes well beyond a voice imitation. Netflix says its team built an 88,000-square-foot factory set across three studios in Australia, complete with an edible Chocolate Room. Rusty Goffe, who played an Oompa-Loompa in the original movie, returned for the series. The eventual winner is set to receive $3 million, paid as a six-figure annuity over 30 years. (Netflix Tudum)
The debate comes during a month when Wilder’s family is also calling attention to another part of his legacy. Wilder died in 2016 from complications of Alzheimer’s disease, and his official legacy site highlights support for research, caregivers and families affected by memory loss. (genewilderofficial.com)
Seven episodes of Wonka’s The Golden Ticket are available now, with a two-part finale scheduled for Sept. 30. By then, viewers will know who wins the factory’s prize. Whether the recreated voice feels like a tribute or a step too far is a question the show has already put in front of them. (Netflix Tudum)
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