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HERSHEY, a major motion picture chronicling the remarkable life of chocolate pioneer Milton Hershey and his beloved wife Catherine “Kitty” Hershey, is officially slated to begin production in May 2025.
While the iconic Hershey’s chocolate bar is recognised around the world, few know the inspiring true story behind its creation. This must-see film for chocolate lovers and history buffs reveals how Milton Hershey overcame repeated business failures to build a chocolate empire and his dedication to a lasting legacy of education and community impact that still changes lives today. It’s a story of inspiration, perseverance, and the power of one man’s vision to make a lasting impact.
Set for 2026 Release
With a global representation by UTA Independent Film Group, HERSHEY, produced by Dandelion Media in partnership with The Hershey Entities, and in association with Aloe Entertainment, Peachtree Group, and RCM3, is set to be released in 2026, coinciding with America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Directed by Mark Waters (Mean Girls, Spiderwick Chronicles, Mr. Popper’s Penguins), and starring Finn Wittrock (The Big Short, Don’t Move, American Horror Story) and Alexandra Daddario (The White Lotus, True Detective, San Andreas) as Milton and Catherine Hershey, HERSHEY promises to be a cinematic experience like no other. The film explores the origins of the iconic chocolate empire and the ingredients that have achieved lasting cultural significance. With Waters’ signature storytelling mastery, Wittrock’s commanding yet heartfelt performance, and Daddario’s emotional depth and captivating screen presence, the movie is set to stand the test of time, just like the brand itself.
Director Mark Waters emphasised the inspirational nature of HERSHEY, describing it as a story of perseverance, love, and lasting impact. “Milton Hershey achieved remarkable success against all odds, but unlike many wealthy men of his era, he chose to share that success with the working class and the community around him,” Waters said.
He noted that the emotional core of the film centres on the relationship between Milton and his wife, Catherine Hershey, whose influence led to the founding of the Milton Hershey School, considered the chocolate magnate’s greatest legacy. “I’m thrilled to have Finn Wittrock and Alexandra Daddario portraying these two visionary figures who believed in leaving the world better than they found it,” Waters added. “It’s the kind of inspiring, true story audiences are eager to see.”
The film is being produced by a team of seasoned professionals, including Sharon Paul (Marlowe, Nuremberg), Mark Tilghman (An Acre of Fools, Vivaldi), Mary Aloe (Mary, Worth), Joshua Harris (Sleeping Dogs, Land of Bad) and Will Hardy. With executive producers Daniel Hank, Joseph Lanius, Flip & Susan Flippen and Joanne Marlowe (RCM3), and a screenplay by Sharon Paul and Timothy Michael Hayes, HERSHEY is in the hands of a team with a proven track record of delivering compelling and engaging films.
More Than a Chocolate Bar: The Man Behind the Icon
For over a century, the Hershey’s chocolate bar has been a part of American culture. Yet, the story of its creator, Milton Hershey, remains largely untold. This movie provides a unique opportunity to learn about his vision, resilience, and profound humanity, and how his most significant innovation wasn’t just creating chocolate for the masses, but his revolutionary business model as a force for social good—a concept decades ahead of its time, including the establishment of the Milton Hershey School.
Hershey Entities: A Legacy of Love and Lasting Impact
Milton’s legacy extends far beyond the beloved chocolate products known worldwide. In Hershey, Pa., five major entities continue to honour his vision: The Hershey Company, Milton Hershey School, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, The M.S. Hershey Foundation and Hershey Trust Company. These five entities collaborated with Dandelion Media for the movie to ensure an authentic portrayal of Milton’s life. From the project’s inception, the filmmakers were granted unprecedented access to the company’s archives and the expertise of Hershey historians.
UTA represents Waters; CAA, Mosaic and Weissenbach Management represent Wittrock, and Schreck Rose Dapello; CAA and Untitled Entertainment represent Daddario. UTA represents the HERSHEY movie.
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