Robert Downey Jr. ‘Iron Man’ has taken a firm stance against the potential digital recreation of his likeness, threatening legal action against any future executives who attempt to create digital replicas of himself.
During a recent appearance on “On With Kara Swisher’s” podcast, the Oscar-winning actor made his position crystal clear: “I intend to sue all future executives just on spec,” he stated, responding to discussions about potential AI recreations of his image. When reminded that such attempts might occur after his lifetime, Downey replied, “My law firm will still be very active.”
The actor’s comments come at a particularly relevant moment in his career, as he currently stars in the Broadway play “McNeal,” which critically examines the intersection of artificial intelligence and humanity. The production takes aim at prominent figures in the AI industry, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.
Addressing tech industry leaders, Downey expressed skepticism about their approach to AI development. “The idea that somehow it belongs to them because they have these super huge start-ups is a fallacy,” he stated. He particularly criticized what he perceives as their lack of transparency, noting that it “turns me off and makes me not want to engage with them because they are not being truthful.”
While the actor’s Marvel tenure as Tony Stark/Iron Man brought up questions about potential digital recreations, Downey expressed confidence in Marvel Studios’ integrity regarding his likeness. “I am not worried about them 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 assured.
This stance against AI recreation comes as Downey prepares for a different kind of return to the Marvel universe. Rather than reprising his role as Tony Stark, he is set to take on the role of Doctor Doom in the upcoming “Avengers: Doomsday” in 2026 – very much as himself, not a digital replica.
Downey’s comments reflect broader concerns in Hollywood about the increasing capabilities of AI technology and its potential impact on actors’ rights and creative control. His proactive stance on protecting his likeness, even beyond his lifetime, may set a precedent for how other performers approach this emerging challenge in the entertainment industry.
About the author:
