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In a recent episode of the “On With Kara Swisher” podcast, Robert Downey Jr. made it clear that he does not want Hollywood to create digital copies of him using AI technology. He warned, “I intend to sue all future executives” who try to make a digital version of him without his permission. In short, Downey wants to keep control over how his image is used in movies and shows.
During the podcast, he talked about his famous role as Iron Man in the Marvel movies. Downey feels secure that the current Marvel team would not use AI to recreate Iron Man. However, he is worried about future executives, saying, “Future executives may not show the same respect. In addition to his film work, he is currently starring in a Broadway play called McNeal, which addresses issues related to big companies in the AI industry, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. He said that some leaders in the AI industry think their success gives them the right to control the technology.
“The problem is when these individuals believe that they are the arbiters of managing this,” he said. In 2026, Downey will return to the Marvel universe as the villain Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday. He confirmed he would not allow Marvel to use AI to create a digital version of him for any role. He wants to have a say in how his characters are portrayed.
While he is cautious about AI in movies, Downey has invested in some AI companies. He explained that he considers the people behind these companies important. He said, “It always comes down again to not the technology or the opportunity to line my pockets as much as, ‘Who are the people involved with this? Do I think they have a moral psychology?’”
