### Robert Downey Jr. Opposes AI Digital Replicas of Performers
In a recent podcast discussion, Robert Downey Jr. garnered attention by taking a resolute position against the use of AI to generate his image posthumously. The actor, renowned for his legendary portrayal of Tony Stark/Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), voiced his apprehensions about the increasing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in the film industry, especially regarding the digital recreation of actors.
#### “I Will Sue All Future Executives”
On the *On With Kara Swisher* podcast, when queried about the likelihood of Hollywood studios employing AI or deepfake technology to replicate his performances after his demise, Downey Jr.’s reply was crystal clear: “I plan to sue all future executives just on spec,” he stated, alluding to any potential efforts to utilize his likeness without his approval. When Swisher noted that he would not be alive to see it, Downey humorously remarked that his law firm “will still be very active.”
This remark emphasizes the actor’s staunch disapproval of the concept of studios leveraging AI to create digital representations of actors without their permission. Downey’s sentiments emerge during a period of rapid advancements in AI technology, prompting ethical concerns regarding the rights of performers in our digital era.
#### Confidence in Marvel Studios
Despite his worries about AI in the wider entertainment landscape, Downey expressed assurance that Marvel Studios, the entity behind the MCU, would refrain from using AI to recreate his Tony Stark character. He expressed his faith in Marvel’s leadership, saying, “I am not concerned about them hijacking my character’s soul since there are just a few key decision-makers there who would never do that to me.”
Downey’s trust in Marvel Studios underscores the strong bond he has fostered with the company throughout the years, having played a vital role in the MCU’s achievements. Nevertheless, his overarching concerns about AI illuminate the mounting uneasiness among actors regarding the potential exploitation of their digital identities.
#### Critique of Tech Leaders
Alongside discussing AI in the entertainment sector, Downey also criticized technology executives during the podcast. He condemned industry leaders who, in his opinion, pursue favorable attention while possibly partaking in detrimental practices. “The issue is when these people presume to be the arbiters of managing this while simultaneously desiring and/or needing to be perceived positively; that is a massive f***ing mistake,” Downey said. “It turns me off and dissuades me from engaging with them because they are not being honest.”
Downey’s critique of tech executives mirrors a wider skepticism regarding the influence of major tech firms on the future of AI and its repercussions for society. As AI progresses, the ethical consequences of its application across diverse fields, including entertainment, are becoming increasingly crucial subjects for consideration.
#### A Wider Industry Concern
Robert Downey Jr. is not alone in expressing worries regarding AI replicas. In 2023, the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) organized a strike, partly due to matters surrounding AI and actor likeness rights. Union President Fran Drescher cautioned that “we are all going to be at risk of being replaced by machines.” The strike arose from fears that studios could scan background actors for a single day’s compensation and exploit their likenesses indefinitely without further remuneration.
The strike concluded in November 2023 with new safeguards for actor likeness rights, representing a significant achievement for performers amidst advancing AI technology. These safeguards ensure that actors possess greater authority over how their likenesses are utilized, especially concerning digital replicas.
#### Downey’s Future in the MCU
While Robert Downey Jr. has made it clear that he will not revisit his role as Iron Man, he is expected to return to the MCU in a different role. According to reports, Downey will portray the antagonist Doctor Doom in the forthcoming *Avengers: Doomsday* movie, set for release in 2026. This signifies a major change in his MCU journey, as he shifts from embodying a cherished hero to one of Marvel’s most famed villains.
#### The Future of AI in Entertainment
As AI technology continues to develop, the entertainment sector encounters numerous ethical and legal dilemmas. The capacity to digitally recreate actors raises inquiries regarding consent, remuneration, and the safeguarding of an actor’s legacy. Robert Downey Jr.’s assertive position against AI replicas emphasizes the necessity for explicit regulations and protections to guarantee that actors maintain control over their likenesses, even after passing.
The discourse on AI in entertainment is far from resolved, and as more actors and industry figures share their views, further advancements in this domain are likely to emerge. For the moment, Downey’s statements remind us that, while AI presents thrilling opportunities,
