Robert Downey Jr. has vowed to take legal action against Hollywood executives who create AI replicas of his likeness without consent, emphasizing his commitment to protecting his image and opposing unauthorized digital cloning in the industry. (Source: Image by RR)

‘My Law Firm Will Be Active’: Actor Plans to Safeguard His Likeness Beyond His Lifetime

During the “On With Kara Swisher” podcast, Robert Downey Jr. recently declared that he would take legal action against any Hollywood executives who attempt to create a digital AI replica of his likeness without his consent. Downey expressed confidence that Marvel, with whom he spent years playing Iron Man, would not use AI to recreate his character, Tony Stark, though he acknowledged that future executives might be inclined to do so. Swisher noted that such a lawsuit might not happen in his lifetime, but Downey emphasized that his legal team would remain vigilant in protecting his image rights.

Downey’s concerns about AI extend beyond Hollywood; on Broadway, he stars in the play “McNeal,” which critiques corporate figures in the AI space, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. He voiced skepticism about tech leaders who attempt to position themselves as the main authority on AI while seeking favorable public perception, a stance he finds disingenuous and off-putting. This perspective, as reported in variety.com, highlights Downey’s broader unease with how tech figures present themselves as the gatekeepers of AI’s future.

When discussing the potential impact of AI, Downey shared that he has little personal concern over digital recreations, noting that his real life and emotional experiences take priority. However, he is clear that he wants control over his own likeness and will challenge any attempts to digitally recreate him without permission, underlining a broader ethical question around digital ownership and legacy.

Looking forward, Downey is set to return to Marvel, but in a surprising twist, he will portray Doctor Doom in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday movie, rather than reprising his iconic role as Tony Stark. His decision to return as a new character rather than as an AI recreation of Iron Man underscores his stance against the unauthorized use of AI likenesses and his desire to maintain human authenticity in his work.

read more at variety.com