TLDR:
- Robert Downey Jr. threatens legal action against future executives who might use AI to recreate his likeness
- Currently starring in Broadway play “McNeal” which deals with AI themes
- Expresses trust in current Marvel executives not to misuse his likeness
- Will return to MCU as Doctor Doom in upcoming Avengers films (2026-2027)
- Has previous involvement with AI through investments and documentary series
Robert Downey Jr. has taken a firm stance against the unauthorized use of artificial intelligence to recreate his likeness, stating he intends to pursue legal action against any future executives who attempt to do so – even after his death.
The 59-year-old actor made these statements during an appearance on the “On with Kara Swisher” podcast, where he was promoting his Broadway debut in the play “McNeal.” When asked about the possibility of future executives attempting to recreate his likeness without permission, Downey Jr. stated plainly, “I would like to here state that I intend to sue all future executives just on spec.”
When podcast host Kara Swisher, 61, pointed out that he might be deceased when such attempts occur, the actor remained steadfast, responding, “I know, but my law firm will still be very active.”
The topic arose during a broader discussion about AI’s role in entertainment, particularly relevant given Downey Jr.’s current role in “McNeal,” a play that explores themes of artificial intelligence. The production features him as Jacob McNeal, described as a renowned writer with “an unhealthy fascination with Artificial Intelligence.”
Addressing his relationship with Marvel Studios, where he famously portrayed Tony Stark/Iron Man, Downey Jr. expressed confidence in the current leadership’s ethical stance.
“I’m 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 said.
The actor’s relationship with AI technology is notably complex. He has invested in FootPrint Coalition, an organization utilizing AI and robotics to reduce human carbon footprints. He also serves on the board of an AI-based cybersecurity firm and has hosted a nine-part YouTube series titled “The Age of AI.”
Despite these technological investments, Downey Jr. maintains a clear distinction between beneficial AI applications and the unauthorized recreation of his likeness. “It always comes down to not the technology or the opportunity to line my pockets as much as, ‘Who are the people involved with this?'” he explained during the podcast.
The actor’s stance comes at a time when AI rights and protections have become central issues in the entertainment industry. The recent SAG-AFTRA strike, which lasted over 100 days, included AI protections for actors among its key negotiating points.
During the podcast, Downey Jr. approached the topic with his characteristic directness, noting that he generally thinks about these issues “minimally because I have an actual emotional life that’s occurring that doesn’t have a lot of room for that.”
The Oscar-winning actor’s career continues to evolve, with his upcoming return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) taking an unexpected turn. Rather than reprising his role as Tony Stark, he will portray the villain Doctor Doom in the upcoming “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Secret Wars” films, scheduled for release in May 2026 and May 2027, respectively.
The announcement of his return to the MCU came during the San Diego Comic-Con in July 2024, with reports suggesting a salary of approximately $100 million for the two films.
His current Broadway role in “McNeal” at Lincoln Center Theater represents another career milestone, marking his debut on the Great White Way. The play opened on September 30, 2024, adding another dimension to his varied career.
These developments come in the wake of his Academy Award win earlier in 2024 for his role in “Oppenheimer,” further cementing his position as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors.
The timing of Downey Jr.’s statements about AI rights aligns with growing industry concerns about digital recreation and deepfake technology, as actors and other creative professionals seek to protect their likenesses in an increasingly digital entertainment landscape.
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