The Hershey Company, a global leader in chocolate production, is venturing into the film industry with an inspiring new project. The upcoming movie titled Hershey highlights the lives of chocolate visionary Milton Hershey and his cherished wife, Catherine, affectionately known as ‘Kitty.’
Set to begin filming in May 2025, this cinematic endeavor aims to delve into the rich, human story behind the iconic Hershey’s chocolate bar. Renowned director Mark Waters, celebrated for hits like Mean Girls, Freaky Friday, and The Spiderwick Chronicles, will be at the helm of the production.
In leading roles, Finn Wittrock is set to portray Milton Hershey, while Alexandra Daddario will play Catherine. The film’s premiere is predicted for 2026, coinciding with America’s 250th anniversary.
Insights into the Hershey Movie
On April 8, 2025, The Hershey Company made a significant announcement via their official Instagram, revealing that the inspiring love story of Milton and Catherine would be depicted in this live-action film. In their carousel post, the company stated:
“To help bring this story to life, our Hershey entities – including The Hershey Company, Milton Hershey School, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, The M.S. Hershey Foundation, and Hershey Trust Company – have partnered with Dandelion Media, providing unprecedented access to our archives to ensure an authentic portrayal of our founder Milton’s legacy.”
This film will not only highlight the chocolate empire built by Milton Hershey but will emphasize the couple’s compassion and vision, which continue to impact lives today. The project is a collaboration between Dandelion Media and various Hershey entities, alongside Aloe Entertainment, Peachtree Group, and RCM3. UTA Independent Film Group is representing the film’s worldwide rights, ensuring broad distribution.
Director and Cast Insights
The film will be brought to life under the talented direction of Mark Waters. Known for his work on films like Mean Girls and Mr. Popper’s Penguins, Waters expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying:
“Against all odds, Milton achieved great success, but unlike a lot of other wealthy men of his time, he shared his success with the working people and community around him.”
Wittrock and Daddario, stars of critically acclaimed series such as American Horror Story and The White Lotus, respectively, will embody the roles of Milton and Catherine Hershey. On this casting decision, Waters noted:
“The core of HERSHEY, the movie, will be the special love story between Milton and Catherine Hershey, who inspired his greatest legacy – the creation of Milton Hershey School. I’m excited to have Finn Wittrock and Alexandra Daddario to portray these two visionaries, who believed in leaving the world a better place than they found it – the kind of wonderful, true story that audiences are hungry for right now.”
Exploring the Movie’s Themes
As the Hershey chocolate bar has become a staple in American culture, the film seeks to weave a narrative of vision, perseverance, and the humanitarian spirit of its founder, Milton Hershey. It will reflect the intersection of business acumen and social responsibility, showcasing how Milton’s chocolate enterprise was paired with the establishment of Milton Hershey School.
A Glimpse into Hershey’s Legacy
Founded in 1894 as a chocolate manufacturer, The Hershey Company evolved from Milton Hershey’s earlier venture, the Lancaster Caramel Company. Today, it stands as a global powerhouse in the confectionery industry, with an impressive portfolio that includes Milk Chocolate, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and various other beloved brands.
Milton Hershey’s legacy goes beyond just chocolate. The organization encompasses five major entities, including Milton Hershey School, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, The M.S. Hershey Foundation, and Trust Company, all dedicated to improving lives and fostering community development.