Timothee Chalamet to portray young Willy Wonka in 'Wonka' prequel

May 24 (UPI) -- Timothee Chalamet has been selected to portray a young Willy Wonka in an upcoming prequel film from Warner Bros. titled Wonka.

The musical will explore the fictional candy maker from Roald Dahl's book before he opens up his signature chocolate factory.

Chalamet will sing and dance in the film, representatives for the actor have confirmed.

Paddington director Paul King is helming the project with David Heyman (Harry Potter) producing. Simon Rich is penning the script.

Wonka is set to hit theaters on March 17, 2023.

Gene Wilder portrayed Willy Wonka in 1971's Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Johnny Depp then portrayed the character in director Tim Burton's 2005 version, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.