{
  "id": 9379823,
  "title": "Wonka’s Golden Ticket on Netflix: How it uses AI Gene Wilder",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/23/wonkas-golden-ticket-on-netflix-how-it-uses-ai-gene-wilder",
  "topic": "ai",
  "section": "AI",
  "published": "2026-09-23T16:46:24.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Mashable",
    "slug": "mashable",
    "url": "https://mashable.com/entertainment/netflix-wonkas-golden-ticket-ai-gene-wilder-backlash"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Netflix has employed artificial intelligence to create an AI-generated version of the late Gene Wilder for the new reality competition series Wonka's Golden Ticket. The show, set to release on Wednesday, has faced criticism for its use of the AI-hosted Wilder, with outlets like Variety and NME deeming it \"ghoulish\" and \"blatantly cruel.\" The AI voice, never seen, hosts the game show based on the 1971 Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory film, not the original Roald Dahl book. The estate of Gene Wilder approved the AI creation, a decision that has sparked debate online. Other cases of deceased entertainers being resurrected with AI have faced similar reactions. While the series offers a unique blend of nostalgia and technology, it has not escaped the scrutiny of those who believe it may be disrespectful to the late actor.",
  "summary": "Netflix turned 'Willy Wonka' into a game show and resurrected Gene Wilder via AI to host it.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}