LOS ANGELES, OCT 30 – Robert Downey Jr. didn’t think Marvel executives would recreate the character of Tony Stark using artificial intelligence (AI). But if they do, he will appoint a lawyer – even after his death.
In a podcast episode On With Kara Swisher recently, the Oscar-winning actor said he intends to ‘sue all the executives’ in the future should he allow himself to be created in an AI version. Speaking about his role as Iron Man, Downey said he didn’t want his look recreated by AI technology.
“I’m not worried about my character being hijacked because there are some people in power there who won’t do it,” said Downey.
Swisher later stated that those executives would eventually be replaced.
“Well, you’re right,” said Downey. “I would like to state here that I intend to sue all future executives.”
“(But) You’re going to die,” Swisher said.
Downey replied: “But my law firm will still be very active.”
Representatives for Marvel Studios and for Downey did not immediately comment on the issue.
The discussion comes amid concerns that film studios will use AI to create digital replicas of actors for use in productions.
Spokesman Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) said Downey has the right to deny any use of a digital replica of himself in a film because a new California law prohibits the use of unauthorized replications of a dead artist’s likeness without prior permission. – AP
