George Clooney on AI actors is drawing attention as the Hollywood star openly discussed his apprehensions about the rapid rise of artificial intelligence in filmmaking, speaking candidly at the Los Angeles premiere of “Jay Kelly” held at the Egyptian Theatre. Recent developments in AI technology have left Clooney and much of the industry unsettled, especially as these advancements threaten to reshape how movies are made and how actors are represented on screen.
Quality of AI Shakes Up Industry Expectations
According to Clooney, new innovations in AI have deeply impacted everyone working in Hollywood. He specifically referenced the latest technology breakthroughs, addressing how their unexpected leap in quality has raised significant concerns among professionals and sparked new debates about the future of the craft.
“The thing that really rattled Hollywood in general was the Sora 2 stuff. That shook everybody because suddenly the quality was much better and it’s scary,”
George Clooney, Actor
Clooney emphasized that no matter how advanced AI becomes, replicating genuine star power remains a significant challenge. While computer algorithms can generate flawless appearances and convincing voices, the intangible qualities that create a true star continue to evade artificial systems.
“But you know, AI is gonna have the same problem that we have in Hollywood, which is making a star is not so easy. You can’t really describe what makes someone a star, and it’s not looks. It’s something unusual and it’s hard to detect. They’ll have the same problems that we have.”
George Clooney, Actor
This perspective highlights the ongoing mystery surrounding what makes some performers unforgettable, a quality that has always fascinated audiences, filmmakers, and talent agencies alike.
Personal Experiences with AI-Generated Clones
On a more personal note, Clooney expressed discomfort at finding fake AI versions of himself on the internet, describing the experience as upsetting and even potentially harmful.
“There’s been some really actually awful ones where they’ve done and said things that I’ve never done and said and put me out there and it’s dangerous,”
George Clooney, Actor
He underlined the deeper implications for privacy, safety, and the well-being of not only public figures but also their families as these technologies become more widespread and harder to control.
“It’s dangerous for your family. It’s dangerous. It’s complicated, but the genie is out of the bottle and I’m not quite sure what we’re gonna do.”
George Clooney, Actor
Studios Experiment with AI-Driven Production
As concerns mount among established actors like Clooney, industry innovators are pushing forward. Eline Van der Velden, who created the much-discussed AI persona Tilly Norwood, is actively collaborating with major studios to blend AI-generated material into new film projects. Van der Velden predicts that the boundaries of AI and entertainment will continue to blur in the coming months.
“I’m sure in the coming year, there’ll be plenty of effects that will be made with AI,”
Eline Van der Velden, Creator
She elaborated that AI will initially handle certain shots and effects, with the potential for fully AI-produced films on the horizon.
“There’ll be some establishing shots, there’ll be some second-unit shots with AI, and then slowly, we’ll progress to a full AI film. And whether people will pay for an AI film or not — I don’t think they’ll know the difference. It’s good storytelling that will be the reason why people will pay for it or not.”
Eline Van der Velden, Creator
Creative Perspectives on AI Characters
Van der Velden’s foray into digital artistry has even caught the attention of talent agencies. Earlier this year, she ignited debate by suggesting agencies were interested in signing Tilly Norwood, the AI character she crafted. For Van der Velden, developing such personas is a process reminiscent of writing compelling roles for human actors.
“As a creative, I have really enjoyed creating her,”
Eline Van der Velden, Creator
She explained the dedicated work behind these AI creations and the emotional bonds that form throughout the process.
“It’s been just like a writer creating characters. You fall in love with your characters when you’re writing them. It’s a wonderful process. It wasn’t like I just made her in a second, and that was it. You know, it took a long time.”
Eline Van der Velden, Creator
Looking Ahead: Human Uniqueness Versus Digital Precision
The continued integration of artificial intelligence into studio workflows highlights an era where efficiency and innovation increasingly drive production, yet figures like George Clooney remind the industry and audiences that human talent carries an irreplaceable spark. As AI-generated material becomes more prevalent, the crucial question remains unanswered: can technology ever capture the unpredictable charm and magnetism that define stardom? For now, Clooney and many of his peers suggest that true star quality remains uniquely human.
