Nicolas Cage Feels ‘Terrified’ by the Rise of AI Technology

Nicolas Cage recently opened up about his concerns regarding the increasing role of artificial intelligence in Hollywood. The actor, known for his diverse roles, is particularly worried about being digitally replaced.

Cage, who stars in the upcoming MGM+ and Amazon Prime Video series Spider-Man Noir, revealed that he underwent a digital scanning process for his role. This experience has caused him to reflect on the future of technology in the film industry.

During an interview with The New Yorker, Cage mentioned needing to leave early for two separate scanning appointments. “I have to slip out after this to go get a scan done for the show, and then also for the movie I’m doing after the show. Two scans in one day!” he shared.

When asked about the scanning process, Cage explained, “Well, they have to put me in a computer and match my eye color and change—I don’t know. They’re just going to steal my body and do whatever they want with it via digital AI. God, I hope not AI, I’m terrified of that. I’ve been very vocal about it.” His apprehension about artificial intelligence is evident, as he expressed concerns about the future of artistic authenticity.

The 60-year-old actor finds the notion of his likeness being used posthumously particularly unnerving. “It is [scary]. And it makes me wonder, you know, where will the truth of the artists end up? Is it going to be replaced? Is it going to be transmogrified? Where’s the heartbeat going to be? I mean, what are you going to do with my body and my face when I’m dead? I don’t want you to do anything with it!”

Cage also touched on how his control over his public image has diminished over time. He drew a parallel between his experiences and his character in Dream Scenario, who becomes an internet meme. “I don’t think I’m in control of that anymore. And that’s also partly why I responded to the script in Dream Scenario. I mean, my meme-ification is not unlike Paul’s dream-ification,” he said.

The actor reminisced about his early career, where he aimed to create a distinctive persona. “I started very young, and I wanted to make a big noise and create a kind of punk-rock aura around myself. I was definitely not going to be a part of the—abhorrent words—Brat Pack. I mean, they didn’t belong in that, either. I thought that was very unfair.”

As he reflects on his career, Cage acknowledges the evolution of his public persona. “But I’m not the same person I was when I was fifteen. I’m now 60. Nonetheless, some of the roles that I’ve gravitated toward have created this mythology, or compounded it.”

Source: The New Yorker