Upcoming Hershey Film to Showcase Founders’ Legacy and Philanthropy

EFFINGHAM, Ill. — The life story of Milton and Catherine Hershey, the founders of the iconic Hershey chocolate company, will be brought to the big screen in the upcoming live-action film “Hershey,” starring Finn Wittrock and Alexandra Daddario. Directed by Mark Waters, known for “Mean Girls” and “Freaky Friday,” the film is set to begin filming in May across Pennsylvania and is targeting a 2026 release, coinciding with the United States’ 250th anniversary.

Wittrock will portray Milton Hershey, who alongside his wife, Kitty, built a candy empire while establishing a significant philanthropic legacy. In 1909, the Hersheys founded the Hershey Industrial School, which has provided free education and housing for orphans and underprivileged children since its inception. Milton’s commitment to philanthropy led him to transfer the majority of his fortune into the Milton Hershey School Trust twenty years before his death, creating one of the wealthiest educational endowments in the country.

“Hershey” is being produced by Dandelion Media in partnership with Hershey Entities, Aloe Entertainment, Peachtree Group, and RCM3. The film is represented by UTA Independent Film Group, which is handling worldwide rights for the project.

Mark Waters expressed his enthusiasm for the film’s focus on Milton and Catherine Hershey’s relationship and their shared vision. “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 stated. He emphasized that the “core of ‘Hershey’ will be the special love story between Milton and Catherine Hershey, who inspired his greatest legacy—the creation of Milton Hershey School.” Waters added that he is excited to work with actors Wittrock and Daddario, who will portray these two pivotal figures in American history.

Michele Buck, President and CEO of The Hershey Company, echoed Waters’ sentiments, stating, “Milton Hershey’s story exemplifies the American Dream. This movie will reveal how Milton and Kitty built something far greater than a chocolate company. Their legacy extends beyond sweet treats to education, community, and opportunity for thousands.”

Pete Gurt, President of the Milton Hershey School, added, “Milton and Catherine Hershey’s greatest achievement wasn’t chocolate—it was creating a home and school for generations of children in need. This movie captures the story that inspired extraordinary generosity and a legacy that endures today through every student and graduate of our school.”

The film’s production team includes producers Sharon Paul, Mark Tilghman, Mary Aloe, Joshua Harris, and Will Hardy. Executive producers are Daniel Hank, Joseph Lanius, Flip & Susan Flippen, and Joanne Marlowe. The film currently does not have a distributor attached, but its release is eagerly anticipated as it aims to capture an important piece of American heritage.