LOS ANGELES — Robert Downey Jr. has expressed skepticism about Marvel executives considering the use of artificial intelligence to recreate his iconic character Tony Stark. However, he has made it clear that if such a scenario were to occur, he would take legal action—regardless of whether he is alive.
In a recent appearance on the “On With Kara Swisher” podcast, Downey, an Oscar-winning actor, conveyed his strong feelings against the idea of an AI-generated version of himself. He stated that they are unlikely to “hijack my character’s soul,” as he believes there are a few key decision-makers at Marvel who respect his legacy and would refrain from such actions, either with his involvement or not.
Recognizing that those executives may eventually be replaced, Swisher pointed out the possibility. Downey responded by firmly stating his intent to “sue all future executives just on spec.” When the host mentioned that he would no longer be around, Downey humorously asserted, “But my law firm will still be very active.”
This topic of discussion arises amidst the ongoing strike by Hollywood video game performers, which began in July due to stalled negotiations for a new interactive media agreement, primarily centered around protections related to artificial intelligence.
The leaders of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists have characterized the matters at hand—especially those involving AI—as a critical threat to the livelihoods of performers. The concerns regarding AI usage by movie studios also contributed to last year’s protracted film and television strikes, which lasted four months. SAG-AFTRA eventually reached a deal mandating that productions obtain informed consent from actors prior to utilizing their digital likenesses.
This month, Downey has made his Broadway debut in the one-act play “McNeal,” crafted by Ayad Akhtar. The play addresses critical themes such as artificial intelligence, artistic integrity, plagiarism, and copyright infringement. At 59 years old, Downey portrays Jacob McNeal, a celebrated novelist whose struggles with addiction and mental health lead him to a turning point in his career.
Downey expressed empathy for those overly identified with the rapid advancements in technology, stating, “I don’t envy anyone who has been over-identified with the advent of this new phase of the information age,” dismissing the notion that the landscape belongs solely to those at the helm of large tech startups.
The podcast conversation further examined the ethical questions posed by the play regarding truth, power, and whether a “social contract” exists with respect to the application of AI. Fans can anticipate Downey’s return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Doctor Doom in the forthcoming project “Avengers: Doomsday,” slated for release in 2026.