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Robert Downey Jr. will sue Marvel if they recreate his Tony Stark character using AI.
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The actor wants to protect his likeness and artistic integrity.
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Downey’s stance comes amid concerns over AI’s impact on Hollywood and actors’ rights.
Robert Downey Jr. has made it clear that he will not allow Marvel to recreate his iconic Tony Stark character using artificial intelligence, even after his death. In a recent podcast interview, Downey stated that he intends to sue any future executives who attempt to hijack his character’s likeness.
Downey’s concerns are timely, given the growing debate over AI’s role in Hollywood. The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has been vocal about AI posing an “existential crisis” for performers. California has recently passed a law prohibiting unauthorized digital replicas of deceased performers without prior consent.
Downey’s stance is also reflected in his Broadway debut, McNeal, which explores themes of artificial intelligence, artistic integrity, and copyright. The actor will also return to Marvel in Avengers: Doomsday, set for release in 2026, where he’ll play Doctor Doom.
By taking a strong stance against AI recreation, Downey is sending a message about the importance of protecting actors’ rights and artistic integrity in the digital age.
