🚨 A BREAKOUT STAR FROM A HIT TEEN SERIES IS LEADING A BRAND-NEW NETFLIX PROJECT

One of the fan-favorite actors from Heartstopper is stepping into the spotlight again — this time as the lead of a brand-new film coming to Netflix.

Rising star Joe Locke, best known for playing Charlie Spring, is set to headline the upcoming movie, marking one of his biggest roles since the global success of the beloved series.

Fans who first discovered him through the heartfelt romance of Heartstopper are already buzzing about what this next chapter could bring.

And the unexpected story behind this new project… is what’s making people even more curious. 👇

Heartstopper star to lead Netflix’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory reboot

Netflix acquired the collection of author’s classic stories and this is their first attempt at expanding the universe

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Kit Connor’s next film has been confirmed(Image: No credit)

The first details have been shared for Netflix’s brand new take on a classic tale.

Announced today (April 16), the streamer has now revealed an upcoming animation feature due to release sometime in 2027. Not only that but they have confirmed that Heartstopper star Kit Connor is set to lead the voice cast.

He will be joined by comedic actor and filmmaker Taika Waititi, known for directing and starring in Jojo Rabbit and Thor Ragnarok. They will both feature in Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory.

However, it seems that while it will be based on the classic Roald Dahl novel, it will be a completely new story. Netflix acquired the Roald Dahl Story Company in 2021, securing rights to the author’s treasured IP although this seems to be the first attempt at expanding upon the universe of stories.

Connor will play the role of Charlie Paley. While having the same first name, he is described as a totally new character as opposed to Charlie Bucket who appears in the original story. Waititi will voice larger-than-life legendary chocolatier Willy Wonka.

The Netflix original is directed by experienced animated filmmakers Jared Stern and Elaine Bogan. Between them they have previously helmed The Lego Batman Movie, Spirit Untamed and Trollhunters.

According to the synopsis, Willy Wonka has spent the years since the Golden Ticket contest behind bars 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 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.

The story is said to be set in modern day London, and the makers hope it retains the quintessential British charm synonymous with Roald Dahl’s original work while featuring a new adventure, original songs, brand new characters and some surprises. Netflix hopes this new chapter set in the world of Wonka will introduce a new generation to its universe and characters.

Kit Connor said: “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!”

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Waititi will voice a new version of WIlly Wonka(Image: BBC/Warner Bros.EntertainmentInc/Aaron Epstein)

Fans reacting to the news have struggled to decide whether or not the film sounds like a good idea. Early reaction has already dubbed the title ‘most unhinged Charlie and the Chocolate Factory film’.

While others were optimistic by the premise as one person posted on social media: “So we’re finally addressing the blueberry incident?? This is about to be chaotic.”

Another claimed: “Giving Taika Waititi a darker weird version of Willy Wonka could either be genius or a total mess but at least its trying something new instead of recycling the same story.” Someone else added: “Wait… he went to prison for turning a kid into a blueberry? This is going to be wild!” A hopeful fan commented: “This sounds like pure chaos in the best way—Taika Waititi as Wonka already guarantees it won’t be anything close to normal.”

Charlie Vs the Chocolate Factory is streaming on Netflix soon.