Kevin O’Leary, known for his role on Shark Tank and recent transition into acting, is sparking debate after speaking out against the use of human extras for the upcoming sports drama “Marty Supreme,” starring Timothée Chalamet, set to premiere December 25. O’Leary argued that millions of dollars could have been saved if filmmakers employed AI-generated extras instead of live background actors, raising questions about the role of AI in modern movie productions.
In a recent appearance on The Hill’s World of Travel podcast, O’Leary described how scenes with up to 150 extras required costly, time-consuming efforts. He explained that these background performers often remained on set for long hours simply to fill visual space, which increased production costs significantly.
“Almost every scene had as many as 150 extras. Now, those people have to stay awake for 18 hours, be completely dressed in the background. Not necessarily in the movie, but they’re necessary to be there moving around. And yet, it costs millions of dollars to do that. So, when we shot in a French Bistro, all the supporting actors behind, or at least the extras were speaking French.
Why couldn’t you simply just put AI agents in their place? Because they’re not the main actors. They’re only in the story visually, and save millions of dollars, so more movies could be made. That same director, instead of spending $90 million or whatever he spent, could’ve spent $35 million and made two movies.”
O’Leary’s remarks highlight the ongoing tension within Hollywood about the adoption of AI technology, where cost-saving innovations challenge traditional practices rooted in human performance. His point about the financial benefits of AI, while practical, contradicts strong opposition from many in the creative community concerned about the impact on working actors and artistry.
Tensions Around AI’s Role in Acting and Film Production
The film industry is increasingly divided over AI’s growing influence. Some embrace the technology for efficiency and innovation, but many actors and artists fear AI could replace their jobs and diminish creative integrity. Films that have experimented with generative AI often face harsh criticism, sometimes being withdrawn before fully reaching audiences due to the controversy.
Even though O’Leary is not a traditional Hollywood insider, his participation in “Marty Supreme” gives weight to his commentary. His views clash with those who value human talent over artificial substitutes in performance. The debate over AI in this artistic field remains intense and uneasy as technology continues to advance.
O’Leary’s Support for AI Actor Tilly Norwood
O’Leary also drew attention to Tilly Norwood, an AI-created actress, using the example to emphasize the unstoppable nature of technological progress. He described Norwood as a digital performer who does not require breaks and can portray any age, provoking union objections in the process.
“Tilly Norwood is an actor that’s burst onto the scene. She is 100% AI. She doesn’t exist, but she’s a great actress. She can come in at any age you want. She doesn’t need to eat, so she works 24 hours a day, and the union is going out of their minds. You can’t stop the advancement of technology. So I’m spending a lot of time investing in it.”
This statement reflects O’Leary’s conflicted position as both an investor in AI technologies and a participant in a traditional film production. His unapologetic stance highlights the friction between technological innovation and labor concerns that currently challenge the entertainment industry’s future.
Context and Cast of “Marty Supreme”
“Marty Supreme” features a high-profile cast including Timothée Chalamet, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Odess A’zion, alongside Kevin O’Leary, marking his acting debut. The film’s story is grounded in the sports drama genre, capturing attention for both its narrative and behind-the-scenes debates, particularly regarding AI’s role in production processes.
The controversy stirred by O’Leary’s remarks is part of larger conversations about how AI might reshape movie-making, not only through cost reductions but also by redefining artistic contributions and labor within the film industry. Many wonder if AI extras will become standard or remain shunned by unions and artists protecting traditional roles.
Implications of AI Replacing Human Roles in Film
If studios embrace AI-generated extras widely, it could dramatically lower production expenses, freeing budget for additional projects or special effects. However, this shift might also threaten employment for thousands of background actors and raise ethical questions about digital representation, creative authenticity, and fair working conditions.
The Timothée Chalamet AI controversy underscores the unsettled balance the film industry faces between innovation and tradition, profit and artistry. As AI technology inexorably advances, future productions will have to navigate these issues carefully to avoid alienating creative talent and audiences alike.
For now, the debate continues, fueled by voices like Kevin O’Leary’s who see AI as a pivotal opportunity, while many artists remain cautious, concerned about the implications for human workers and the essence of storytelling through live performance.
