CHARLIE VS THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY: KIT CONNOR TO STAR IN NETFLIX ANIMATED SPECIAL

Netflix have released a first look and confirmed casting for animated film Charlie Vs The Chocolate Factory, being wrapped up for a 2027 release.

Set in modern-day London, Kit Connor (Heartstopper) voices Charlie Paley, a brand-new character stepping into the spotlight, while Taika Waititi (Thor: Love and Thunder) lends his voice to the legendary confectioner himself.

Netflix share: "Willy Wonka (Waititi) has spent the years since the Golden Ticket contest behind bars (not the chocolate kind) for the crime of turning a child into a blueberry. Having served his time, Wonka returns to his factory determined to add a little sweetness to a bitter world...

"But one thing stands in his way: teenager Charlie Paley (Connor) and his friends. Facing eviction, this next generation of “rotten” kids plot to break into the factory, nab a priceless Wonka Bar, and save their homes. But like many before them who enter the fantastical world of the factory, these kids are in for a bit more than they can chew..."

Kit Connor says, “I’m so excited to enter the wonderful world of Wonka. I was immediately caught by the early concept art and the directors’ vision for the film — capturing the spirit and heart that made the original story so special, whilst imbuing it with something so fresh and unique. It’s such a fun representation of the London that I know. This new adventure is going to surprise audiences around the world. You’re in for a treat!”

Meanwhile, Netflix announced the commission of new reality competition series, The Golden Ticket, inspired by Wonka and Road Dahl's 1964 novel Charlie And The Chocolate Factory.

The show is the latest Roald Dahl project from Netflix, who partnered with the Road Dahl Story in 2021. This all-new immersive series will see a group of contestants step into the 'whimsical wonderland' - if they have a golden ticket.

However, the golden ticket will only take the players so far and to succeed they will need to adapt and strategise as they take on games, tests and temptations designed to prove their instincts, resilience, and ability to thrive in the chaos of a retro-futuristic dreamscape.

Jeff Gaspin, Vice President of Unscripted at Netflix, commented: "We are thrilled to bring the magic of The Chocolate Factory to life like never before. This one-of-a-kind reality competition blends adventure, strategy, and social dynamics, creating an experience that is as captivating as it is unpredictable. For the first time, a lucky few won’t just have to imagine the experience - they’ll get to step inside the factory and live it."

More details about both titles will be announced in due course.