Filming concludes on major movie celebrating Hershey’s history
Hershey's stand at this year's Sweets & Snacks in the US, with the company expecting at large presence at NACS. Pic: Neill Barston
Considerable industry excitement has surrounded the development of a new major movie focused on the story of Hershey’s early days in the confectionery sector, which has concluded filming, writes Neill Barston.
As the business observed, it is set to focus on the true story of founder Milton S. Hershey, with a total of seven weeks of filming across Hershey’s home state of Pennsylvania, featuring more than 1,500 background actors joining its principal cast.
James A Mahathey / HERSHEY
The movie from Mark Waters (Mean Girls), brings to life the powerful story of a man who is considered to have overcame early failure to build one of the world’s most iconic brands. His legacy lies not in chocolate but in his enduring contributions to education, community, and opportunity through Milton Hershey School.
Finn Wittrock (The Big Short) stars as Milton S. Hershey alongside Alexandra Daddario (The White Lotus) as his beloved wife Catherine “Kitty” Hershey. The cast also features Alan Ruck (Succession), Richard Kind (Only Murders in the Building), David Costabile (Billions), Heléne York (The Other Two), Michael Moreland Milligan (Chicago Fire), Francesca Faridany (Manifest), Daniel David Stewart (Catch-22) and Dina Spybey-Waters (Just Like Heaven).
“As we wrap, I feel most grateful to the people of Pennsylvania, who have supported us and actively participated in making this shoot a success,” said Director Mark Waters. “I feel immense pride in what we’ve been able to do here, particularly in the fully committed performances of Finn Wittrock and Alexandra Daddario, who have given their hearts and souls to portray two figures whose legacy still resonates today.
The movie is due to be released during 2026, set to mark the 250 anniversary of the formation of the United States.
