The age of digital technology and the rapid development of artificial intelligence has raised numerous questions about image rights and the ethics of using celebrities in virtual reality. One of Marvel’s most famous and beloved actors, Robert Downey Jr., has made it clear that he has no intention of sharing his “digital self” with the world—neither during his lifetime nor after his death.
The Oscar winner expressed his stance unequivocally, stating that he would be ready to sue any company that attempts to create his likeness using AI technologies, even if he is unable to do so personally. Downey Jr. emphasized that his position against the use of artificial intelligence to recreate his persona is serious and unequivocal. “My legal team will always be active, even when I’m gone,” he declared, ironically yet firmly.
For fans of his iconic role as Iron Man, as well as for the entire film industry, this statement serves as a signal: the era of posthumous use of images without consent may not happen as quickly as studios would like. Downey believes that AI can be used in various fields, but without abuse or intrusion into a person’s identity.
Each year, AI technology opens up new possibilities for the film industry, and the creation of digital replicas is becoming increasingly realistic. Some actors, such as James Dean and Carrie Fisher, have already “returned” to the screen posthumously thanks to digital technologies. However, for Downey Jr., who has built his career over decades, this is absolutely unacceptable.
The 59-year-old Hollywood star notes that being an actor involves not only playing roles but also bringing a part of one’s character, experience, and even vulnerability to each performance. He finds the use of AI to recreate his likeness at least unethical. “How do I feel about all of this? I feel it’s superficial, because I have a real emotional life that doesn’t leave much room for this.”
Downey’s firm, even tough character is no joke. During the filming of the first “Iron Man,” he got into a fight with Terrence Howard, who played his character’s best friend.
Fortunately, for now, neural networks more often entertain us than make us fear for our identities. Recently, AI-generated reimaginings of interiors from Soviet films in a modern style appeared online. Neural networks can also be useful tools; for example, we showcased original designs for autumn manicures to suit any taste.
