By Mallory Mattingly
Have you ever wondered how Hershey’s Chocolate got its start? An upcoming movie titled HERSHEY will give candy lovers everywhere a peek into how the brand became the icon it is today.
“HERSHEY, an upcoming major motion picture that shares the story of Milton and Catherine Hershey — and celebrates not just chocolate, but their compassion, vision, and enduring impact,” the Hershey Company posted on Instagram on Tuesday.
According to Variety, HERSHEY will star Finna Wittrock and Alexandra Daddario as Milton and Catherine “Kitty” Hershey. Mark Waters (MEAN GIRLS and FREAKY FRIDAY) is set to direct the film.
“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,” Waters said in a press release. “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.”
In association with Dandelion Media production, HERSHEY will chronicle the life of Milton and Kitty Hershey and how Milton’s “revolutionary business model as a force for social good.”
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In 1909, Milton and Kitty started the Hershey Industrial School, a place that provided free schooling and housing for orphans and underprivileged kids. It still serves kids today.
“Milton and Catherine Hershey’s greatest achievement wasn’t chocolate—it was creating a home and school for generations of children in need,” Pete Gurt, President of the Milton Hershey School, said. “As an alumnus of Milton Hershey School, I’ve seen firsthand how their vision transforms lives. This movie captures the story that inspired extraordinary generosity and a legacy that endures today through every student and graduate of our school. It’s a reminder that true success is measured not by what you gain, but by what you give.”
In addition to the school, the Hersheys also built The Hershey Company, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, The M.S. Hershey Foundation and Hershey Trust Company, all in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
“Milton Hershey’s story exemplifies the American Dream. This movie will reveal how Milton and Kitty built something far greater than a chocolate company,” President and CEO of The Hershey Company, Michele Buck, said. “Their legacy extends beyond sweet treats to education, community, and opportunity for thousands. We’re proud to support a film that shares the full Hershey story — one of resilience, vision and impact that continues to inspire today.”
HERSHEY will begin production this May and will plan for a 2026 release.
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