Olivia Colman, Rowan Atkinson and Sally Hawkins are joining Timothée Chalamet in Warner Bros.’ “Wonka,” it was announced on Wednesday.
The musical prequel to the Roald Dahl classic “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will be directed by Paul King, who will also co-write with writing partner Simon Farnaby, with David Heyman producing through Heyday Films. Michael Siegel and Rosie Alison are serving as executive producers.
Chalamet will star as Dahl’s famous chocolatier Willy Wonka, and the film will follow his travels around the world before he built the magical candy factory that poor, humble Charlie Bucket would eventually inherit. Mathew Baynton, Jim Carter, Tom Davis, Simon Farnaby, Rich Fulcher, Kobna Holdbrook-Smith, Paterson Joseph, Keegan-Michael Key, Calah Lane, Colin O’Brien, Matt Lucas, Natasha Rothwell, Rakhee Thakrar and Ellie White also star.
Colman most recently starred in “Mother Sunday” and “The Father,” as well as in “The Crown.” She is currently in post-production on the TV series “Landscapers.” She is represented by ICM, United Agents and Narrative.
Atkinson is most famous for his role as “Mr. Bean,” and most recently, he starred in “Johnny English Strikes Back.” He is currently filming the TV series “Man vs. Bee.” He is represented by PBJ Management.
Hawkins most recently starred in “Paddington 2” and “Godzilla: King of the Monsters,” and will next be seen in “Spencer” opposite Kristen Stewart. She is represented by Conway van Gelder Grant and Peikoff Mahan Law Office.
“Wonka” is set for release on March 17, 2023. The Hollywood Reporter first reported the news.