Shark Tank Star's AI Actors Proposal Divides Filmmaking Community

As of 2025-10-28T20:15:20+00:00, the debate over the use of AI in filmmaking has intensified. The discussion was reignited this week after Shark Tank investor-turned-actor Kevin O'Leary proposed that film productions could save millions by replacing background extras with AI-generated stand-ins.

O'Leary argued that AI could make large-scale productions more efficient, citing the high costs of employing hundreds of background performers. He pointed to the example of "Tilly Norwell," an AI-generated actress, as evidence of how the technology is evolving. O'Leary claimed that AI actors could appear at any age, never tire, and "work 24 hours a day," making them ideal for background roles.

However, actor Simu Liu strongly disagreed with O'Leary's suggestion. In a recent interview, Liu called the proposal "a really dumb take" that was "tone-deaf and out of touch." He emphasized that background actors are not the reason for rising production costs and that their work often serves as the training ground for future stars. Liu argued that depriving the world of background actors would also deprive people of the opportunity to develop their skills.

The debate over the use of AI in filmmaking is ongoing, with some seeing it as the future of the industry and others concerned about the potential loss of the human touch. As the technology continues to evolve, the industry will likely grapple with the balance between efficiency and preserving the art of filmmaking.