Robert Downey Jr. has made it clear that he will not allow AI to replicate his likeness in films, even after his death, and has issued a stern warning to Hollywood executives. As artificial intelligence technology continues to evolve, it poses both opportunities and threats to creativity in the entertainment industry. Many actors, directors, and writers have voiced their concerns, and Downey Jr., best known for his iconic role as Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), is the latest to weigh in with a strong stance.
Downey Jr., who recently won an Academy Award for his performance in Oppenheimer, appeared on the On With Kara Swisher podcast, where he addressed the potential misuse of AI to recreate actors’ likenesses. Swisher pointed out that “future executives” might attempt to digitally resurrect his image after his passing. Downey Jr. responded with a firm declaration:
“Well, you’re right. I would like to here state that I intend to sue all future executives just on spec…[after death] my law firm will still be very active.”
A Trusted Relationship with Marvel Studios
While Downey Jr. expressed distrust toward certain industry practices, he shared confidence in Marvel Studios, where he starred as Tony Stark/Iron Man for over a decade. Though he won’t reprise his role as Stark, Downey Jr. will return to the MCU in Avengers: Doomsday as Doctor Doom, marking a new chapter in his Marvel career. Speculation continues about whether Tony Stark could appear in a flashback or multiverse storyline, but Downey Jr. insists that any such portrayal would have to happen while he’s alive.
“I am not worried about [Marvel] hijacking my character’s soul because there’s like three or four guys and gals who make all the decisions there anyway, and they would never do that to me, with or without me,” he said.
His comments reflect a deep trust in Marvel Studios, particularly after they chose not to recreate Chadwick Boseman’s T’Challa following the actor’s untimely passing, opting instead to honor his legacy respectfully.
The Growing Concern Over AI in Hollywood
Downey Jr.’s remarks come as Hollywood grapples with the ethical implications of AI in filmmaking. The use of deepfake technology to resurrect deceased actors has often sparked criticism. For instance, Christopher Reeve’s appearance in The Flash and Ian Holm’s likeness in Alien prequel media were criticized for their unsettling and exploitative nature. Many feel such recreations fail to honor the actors’ legacies and instead reduce their contributions to mere tools for nostalgia.
While AI technology will undoubtedly improve in the coming decades, Downey Jr. argues that the ethical considerations will remain unchanged. “It will always feel gross when a deceased actor’s likeness is recreated,” he said, encouraging more actors to take a stand to protect their legacies from exploitation.
A Call for Industry Accountability
Downey Jr.’s firm stance is a reminder of the importance of respecting the contributions and identities of actors, both living and deceased. By refusing to let AI replace him, he’s setting an example for other performers to safeguard their creative legacies. As Hollywood continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, Downey Jr.’s voice adds a powerful perspective to the ongoing debate.