Netflix is using an AI-generated Gene Wilder voice in its Willy Wonka reality show
Netflix isn't just watching AI anymore. It's shipping products with synthetic voices—and getting family consent to do it.
Why it matters
Netflix is moving beyond experimental AI use into production deployment of generative audio (via ElevenLabs) for mainstream entertainment. This signals how quickly synthetic voice technology is being normalized in consumer media and validates a path for AI companies to monetize voice synthesis at scale with IP clearance.
The key facts
11 to knowNetflix partnering with ElevenLabs for AI-generated Gene Wilder voiceover
Wilder family consent obtained for synthetic voice use
Previous Netflix productions used AI audio for Michael Caine and Stan Lee voices
Show premieres September 23, 2026
Continuation of Netflix's 2021 partnership with Roald Dahl company
Represents production deployment, not pilot phase
Netflix partnered with ElevenLabs for AI-generated Gene Wilder voiceover
Previous voice recreation projects: Michael Caine and Stan Lee
Wilder family consent obtained
Part of Netflix's Roald Dahl company partnership
Follows Squid Game reality show format trend
Go to the source
The Verge AItheverge.com
Publisher excerpt: A new teaser trailer confirmed that Wonka's The Golden Ticket will premiere on Netflix on September 23rd, following its Squid Game reality show in the trend of creating real competitions based on fictional torture scenarios. While the sets seen in the trailer are real and not some Glasgow-style AI…