← Back to diffwire

AI resurrects late actor Val Kilmer for new film debut in 2026

21 articles | Updated 7h ago | Created 2d ago
Story image

A generative artificial intelligence version of veteran actor Val Kilmer, who passed away last year (reported as dying in early March), is set to make his posthumous acting debut this month. His daughter Mercedes confirmed that the AI depiction was created with her father's optimistic view on technology guiding its use for storytelling purposes rather than mere nostalgia or mockery. The project involves a new independent film titled "As Deep As The Grave," marking one of boldest recent applications where an actor digitally resurrected to co-star in live-action production after death by 2019

  1. 1
    [Mar] Val Kilmer is reported to be digitally resurrected using generative artificial intelligence for the upcoming film 'As Deep As The Grave'.
  2. 2
    The project involves creating photorealistic moving images of a deceased actor who died approximately one year prior.
  3. 3
    'Controversial' reactions have emerged from industry figures, including director Coert Voor and Variety reports regarding ethical implications.
[Mar] Mar.21 (Siftrss) Reports state Val Kilmer 'risorge' (rises again), though noting something is not quite right with the narrative or execution, despite it sounding good.
[Feb/Mar 07:51] (Jornada.com.mx) Headline claims Kilmer was 'resurrected' via AI to appear in a movie months after his death (context implies an earlier date than the March reports).
[Mar] Mar.20 (Faz/Mar 19) Multiple sources confirm Kilmer is returning as actor for 'As Deep As The Grave' using AI, despite his death.
Val Kilmer ‘risorge’ grazie all’Ai. Detta così, suona bene ma qualcosa non va
Val Kilmer, resucitado con IA para aparecer en una película meses después de su muerte
Επιστροφή του Βαλ Κίλμερ μέσω AI: Πρωταγωνιστεί μετά θάνατον στην ταινία «As Deep As the Grave»
Mit Hilfe von KI: Val Kilmer soll auf die Leinwand zurückkommen – obwohl er tot ist
Val Kilmer resucita como actor en una nueva película con su imagen generada por IA