Hollywood Just Crossed Into the AI Afterlife

Val Kilmer’s digital return forces the industry to confront who really owns a performance once the actor is gone.

Takeaways

• AI turns talent into an asset that can outlive the artist. Studios can now extend performances beyond an actor’s lifetime. That shifts control from individuals to institutions.

• Legal approval does not equal audience trust. Even with estate consent, viewers may question authenticity. Perception will matter as much as permission.

• Early guardrails w…