Robert Downey Jr. Takes a Stand Against Generative AI
In a recent podcast appearance, Robert Downey Jr. voiced his strong opposition to the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) to recreate his likeness, especially when it comes to reprising his iconic role as Tony Stark. The actor, who has experienced significant success, including an Oscar win for his role in "Oppenheimer," shared his thoughts during a conversation with Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Ayad Akhtar and Tony-winning director Bartlett Sher on the podcast hosted by Cara Swisher.
When asked about his feelings towards deepfakes and AI recreations, Downey expressed a largely detached perspective, stating, “I feel about it minimally because I have an actual emotional life that’s occurring.” He emphasized that his real life takes precedence over the technological advancements that AI represents. Nevertheless, he acknowledged the potential for such technologies to be misused in Hollywood.
Despite his concerns, Downey reassured fans that he trusts the current decision-makers at Marvel. "I'm not worried about them hijacking my character's soul," he remarked, referencing the small group of people who oversee creative decisions within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). However, when the conversation turned to the future, Swisher pointed out that new executives might have different ideas, to which Downey humorously responded, “I intend to sue all future executives just on spec though.” The light-hearted banter continued as Swisher noted that he would be gone by then, prompting Downey to quip that his law firm would still be active.
Throughout the discussion, Downey made it clear that his concerns about emerging technologies extend beyond their mere existence. He is fundamentally interested in the motivations and moral compass of the people behind them. “It always comes down again to not the technology or the opportunity to line my pockets as much as who are the people involved in this,” Downey asserted. This philosophy aligns with his longstanding investment ethos, as he believes it is crucial to consider the ethical implications of technology in entertainment and beyond.
Apart from addressing AI, Downey has been making waves in the theater world with his current project, "McNeil," where he portrays a Nobel Prize-winning novelist leveraging AI to craft a new work. The production, presented at the Lincoln Center Theater, runs through November 24 and has garnered a mix of reviews.
Looking ahead, fans can expect to see Downey return to his superhero roots as he is set to reprise his role, this time as Dr. Doom, in upcoming Marvel films like "Avengers: Doom Day" and "Avengers: Secret Wars." This return cements Downey's status as one of the highest-paid actors within the Marvel franchise, which continuously redefines what it means to balance creativity, technology, and the human element in storytelling.
In summary, Robert Downey Jr.’s insights reflect a growing awareness and caution regarding the influence of AI in the entertainment industry. His stance serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical considerations and human involvement in an era increasingly dominated by advanced technologies.
Part 1/6:
Robert Downey Jr. Takes a Stand Against Generative AI
In a recent podcast appearance, Robert Downey Jr. voiced his strong opposition to the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) to recreate his likeness, especially when it comes to reprising his iconic role as Tony Stark. The actor, who has experienced significant success, including an Oscar win for his role in "Oppenheimer," shared his thoughts during a conversation with Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Ayad Akhtar and Tony-winning director Bartlett Sher on the podcast hosted by Cara Swisher.
Concerns Over Deepfakes and AI Recreation
Part 2/6:
When asked about his feelings towards deepfakes and AI recreations, Downey expressed a largely detached perspective, stating, “I feel about it minimally because I have an actual emotional life that’s occurring.” He emphasized that his real life takes precedence over the technological advancements that AI represents. Nevertheless, he acknowledged the potential for such technologies to be misused in Hollywood.
Part 3/6:
Despite his concerns, Downey reassured fans that he trusts the current decision-makers at Marvel. "I'm not worried about them hijacking my character's soul," he remarked, referencing the small group of people who oversee creative decisions within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). However, when the conversation turned to the future, Swisher pointed out that new executives might have different ideas, to which Downey humorously responded, “I intend to sue all future executives just on spec though.” The light-hearted banter continued as Swisher noted that he would be gone by then, prompting Downey to quip that his law firm would still be active.
The Human Element Behind Technology
Part 4/6:
Throughout the discussion, Downey made it clear that his concerns about emerging technologies extend beyond their mere existence. He is fundamentally interested in the motivations and moral compass of the people behind them. “It always comes down again to not the technology or the opportunity to line my pockets as much as who are the people involved in this,” Downey asserted. This philosophy aligns with his longstanding investment ethos, as he believes it is crucial to consider the ethical implications of technology in entertainment and beyond.
Current Projects and Future Endeavors
Part 5/6:
Apart from addressing AI, Downey has been making waves in the theater world with his current project, "McNeil," where he portrays a Nobel Prize-winning novelist leveraging AI to craft a new work. The production, presented at the Lincoln Center Theater, runs through November 24 and has garnered a mix of reviews.
Looking ahead, fans can expect to see Downey return to his superhero roots as he is set to reprise his role, this time as Dr. Doom, in upcoming Marvel films like "Avengers: Doom Day" and "Avengers: Secret Wars." This return cements Downey's status as one of the highest-paid actors within the Marvel franchise, which continuously redefines what it means to balance creativity, technology, and the human element in storytelling.
Part 6/6:
In summary, Robert Downey Jr.’s insights reflect a growing awareness and caution regarding the influence of AI in the entertainment industry. His stance serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical considerations and human involvement in an era increasingly dominated by advanced technologies.