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Netflix Uses AI to Recreate Gene Wilder's Voice for New Wonka Reality Show

🔄 Updated 45d ago — new reporting from BBC Technology
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Key points

  • Netflix's new show,"Wonka's The Golden Ticket," premieres September 23.
  • AI-generated Gene Wilder voice is used with family's consent.
  • Mixed public reactions over AI recreating Wilder's voice.
  • The show involves 12 participants competing in a week-long event.
  • Partnership with ElevenLabs for the AI voice technology.

Overview of Netflix's Latest Reality Show

Netflix will premiere its latest reality show, "Wonka's The Golden Ticket," on September 23. The show will use an AI-generated version of Gene Wilder's voice, made possible through collaboration with ElevenLabs and with the consent of Wilder's family.

This announcement follows previous Netflix projects leveraging fictional themes for competitive reality shows, similar to their "Squid Game" adaptation.

Nostalgic Voice Brought Back Through AI

The late Gene Wilder, known for his iconic role as Willy Wonka, has had his voice recreated using AI technology. The inclusion of this AI-generated voice aims to celebrate Wilder's imagination and lasting influence on the role.

Wilder's family embraced the project's tribute to the actor's legacy, aligning with Netflix's ongoing partnership with the Roald Dahl company.

Mixed Reactions from Fans

While Netflix has secured the approval of Wilder's family, fans have expressed mixed reactions to the use of AI to recreate the actor's voice. Some appreciate the homage to Wilder, while others feel the technological approach detracts from his legacy.

Levity and criticism appeared in some online reactions, drawing comparisons to past events related to the Willy Wonka theme.

Significance to the Tech Industry

The use of AI to recreate voices raises questions about the ethics and future implications of digital likenesses in media. As technology advances, the entertainment industry's use of AI for nostalgic purposes continues to spark debate.

This development underscores a broader trend of integrating AI-generated content into mainstream media projects.

✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →

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How outlets covered it

Netflix will utilize AI to recreate Gene Wilder's voice for its series "Wonka's The Golden Ticket." The decision has generated mixed reactions, with some fans considering it disrespectful despite the consent from Wilder's estate.

Netflix confirmed the use of an AI-generated Gene Wilder voice in its upcoming reality show, "Wonka’s The Golden Ticket," premiering September 23. The production, a partnership with ElevenLabs and Wilder's family, adds to Netflix's trend of competing reality shows based on fictional themes.