Despite Star Trek’s Progressive Attitude, Franchise’s Most Legendary Veteran is a Big No-No on Artificial Intelligence
Known for portraying the role of Captain Kirk in the Star Trek franchise, William Shatner has had a prolific career in the world of film and television. And the actor shared his remarkable journey and diverse array in his documentary, William Shatner: You Can Call Me Bill.
While promoting the documentary, the 93-year-old actor was asked about the use of artificial intelligence in filmmaking, to which the actor shared an interesting answer, specifically addressing whether he would support an AI version of his iconic character returning in the sci-fi series.
William Shatner on the Use of Artificial Intelligence
The use of artificial intelligence has become a significant topic of discussion in the film industry, particularly highlighted during the 2023 Hollywood strikes. Debates have also emerged about reviving or recreating performances from older actors using AI technology.
When asked about the same in a conversation with ComicBook.com, William Shatner shared a unique perspective on the matter. He acknowledged that it was a significant subject of concern during the strikes while sharing the conditions under which he would permit its use.
“It’s an interesting question,” Shatner said before adding, “The strike was all about getting permission to do that.” He shared that he would not want an AI version of himself on screen while he is alive. “And so if I’m alive, I don’t want AI to do that,” he further said during the interview.
However, he also noted that he would advise his family to allow AI to use his likeness after he passes away if they were compensated well. He stated,
But if I’m dead and they ask my family and they’re going to pay my family very well to sound like me, I would advise them to say yes.
Along with artificial intelligence, the actor has also reflected on the use of new technological de-aging methods in order to reprise his role as Captain James T. Kirk in the Star Trek franchise.
William Shatner on Reprising His Role in Star Trek Franchise
In a recent interview, William Shatner reflected on the prospect of reprising his role as James T. Kirk in the Star Trek franchise. And he shared that he would love to return to the beloved sci-fi series if the script is impressive enough. He said,
It’s almost impossible. But if was a great role and so well-written and if there were a reason to be there not just to make a cameo appearance, but if there were a genuine reason for the character appearing, I might consider it.
He also shared that he could play a younger version of himself, by utilizing the de-aging technology, similar to how Harrison Ford was transformed into a younger Indiana Jones in the fifth installment of the franchise, Dial of the Destiny.
“[It] takes years off of your face, so that in a film you can look 10, 20, 30, 50 years younger than you are,” he said while sharing some interesting ideas for his return to the franchise. Shatner last appeared as Captain Kirk in the 1994 film Star Trek Generations, in which his character died while saving the Enterprise from Khan Noonien Singh.
