The renowned candy kingdom, Hershey, will see its legacy dramatized on the silver screen in the upcoming live-action movie "Hershey." Slated for a 2026 release, the production will spotlight the journey of the candy empire's founder, Milton Hershey, portrayed by Finn Wittrock, and his wife Kitty, interpreted by Alexandra Daddario.

An exciting project of Dandelion Media that allied with Hershey Entities, Aloe Entertainment, Peachtree Group, and RCM3 to bring Milton's fascinating story to life, the movie is set to commence shooting in May across Pennsylvania. As of now, the film is without a distributor.

Milton Hershey, alongside his supportive life partner Kitty, not only built an influential candy empire but also ignited a philanthropic fire that brightened countless lives. In 1909, the couple founded the Hershey Industrial School, a benevolent institution providing free education and shelter to orphans and less fortunate children.

Significantly, two decades before his passing, Milton redirected the majority of his wealth into the Milton Hershey School Trust, thus laying the foundation for one of the country's richest educational endowments. Moreover, the Hersheys, in their bid to develop a community around their chocolate factory, established theatres, recreation centers, and public transportation systems for their workforce.

Celebrating America's 250th anniversary, the film is expected to premiere in 2026. "Milton achieved remarkable success against all odds, but outshone other affluent men of his era by sharing his prosperity with the workforce and society around him," said director Mark Waters. He further added that the movie would highlight the profound love between Milton and Catherine Hershey that motivated his most tremendous legacy - the Milton Hershey School.

Excited about his casting decisions, Waters believes Wittrock and Daddario are perfect to personify the visionary couple who aimed to leave the world better than they found it. The movie is in the capable hands of producers Sharon Paul, Mark Tilghman, Mary Aloe, Joshua Harris, and Will Hardy, along with executive producers Daniel Hank, Joseph Lanius, Flip & Susan Flippen, and Joanne Marlowe.

Michele Buck, The Hershey Company's president and CEO, praised Milton Hershey's story as an epitome of the American Dream. She believes that the movie will demonstrate how Milton and Kitty Hershey built considerably more than just a chocolate company, their true legacy stretches beyond mere confections towards education, community building, and opportunities for thousands.

Pete Gurt, president of the Milton Hershey School, echoed Buck's sentiments. As a Milton Hershey School alumnus, he expressed that their most extraordinary achievement lies not in the creation of chocolate but in sculpting a home and institution for needy children over generations. Gurt expressed excitement for the upcoming movie, highlighting the inspiring narrative of profound generosity that continues to reshape students' lives even today.