Robert Downey Jr. may have hung up his Iron Man suit, but the Academy Award-winning actor is ready to unleash a different kind of power: legal action. The 59-year-old star recently voiced his strong opposition to the use of artificial intelligence in recreating his likeness, revealing his determination to protect his identity in a rapidly changing Hollywood landscape.
In an episode of the “On with Kara Swisher” podcast, Downey Jr. made his stance clear: “I intend to sue.” This declaration comes in response to the fast-paced advancements in AI technology, which he fears could lead to manipulations of his image without consent.
Reflecting on his iconic role as Tony Stark, the billionaire superhero who captivated audiences in nearly a dozen Marvel films, Downey Jr. acknowledged the unique challenges that come with his celebrity status. His character’s fate was sealed in the 2019 blockbuster “Avengers: Endgame,” but the repercussions of his on-screen legacy continue to haunt him.
While Downey Jr. has previously hinted at his reluctance to reprise the role of Iron Man, his concerns about AI go beyond mere nostalgia. In a candid 2020 conversation with Joe Rogan, he stated, “To me, starting up again is off the table. I feel I’ve done all I could with that character.” He underscored his desire to explore new creative avenues, emphasizing that any return would require a compelling reason.
When Swisher asked if he feared someone might use AI to manipulate his likeness, Downey Jr. acknowledged the complexities involved. “There’s two tracks,” he explained. “One is how I feel about everything that’s going on, and my answer is, I mean, I feel about it minimally because I have an actual emotional life that’s occurring.” He expressed confidence that the current Marvel executives would not betray his character’s legacy, noting that they are closely involved in creative decisions. “There’s like three or four guys and gals who make all the decisions there anyway,” he said, “and they would never do that to me, with or without me.”
However, the conversation took a humorous turn when Swisher pointed out that future executives might not share the same loyalty. Downey Jr. quickly retorted, “I would like to state that I intend to sue all future executives just on spec.” When Swisher joked about his potential absence in the future, he quipped back, “I know, but my law firm will still be very active.”
Downey Jr. did not shy away from discussing his intrigue with AI. “I’ve been very interested in AI since ChatGPT went live,” he revealed. He marveled at the astonishing capabilities of the technology, while also expressing his reservations. “The problem is, when these individuals believe that they are the arbiters of managing this, meanwhile, wanting and needing to be seen in a favorable light, that is a massive f—ing error,” he cautioned. “It turns me off and makes me not want to engage with them, because they’re not being truthful.”
Despite the swirling concerns, Downey Jr. is set to make a return to the Marvel Universe, reportedly taking on the role of Dr. Doom in the upcoming 2026 film “Avengers: Doomsday.” As he navigates the complexities of Hollywood’s evolving landscape, one thing remains clear: Robert Downey Jr. is ready to fight for his artistic integrity. With humor, conviction, and a hint of nostalgia, he stands firm against the encroaching influence of AI, reminding us all that even in a digital age, the human touch remains irreplaceable.
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