Samuel L. Jackson is well aware of the growing role and impact of AI in Hollywood, which is why he takes precautions when it comes to allowing his likeness to be used in perpetuity. In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, the Secret Invasion star discussed his support for the writers strike, his thoughts on the MCU, and working with Brie Larson.
During the conversation, Jackson revealed that he has been thinking about the role of AI in Hollywood since his Star Wars prequel days. He recalled the first time he got scanned for George Lucas’ The Phantom Menace and thought it was because Lucas wanted to include older actors in the film even if something happened to them. This experience has been repeated throughout his time playing Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, especially with the use of de-aging technology. Jackson realized that studios can now digitally alter his appearance whenever they want, which is why he has become more careful when signing contracts that include the words “in perpetuity” and “known and unknown”. To show his disapproval, he crosses out those terms in his contracts.
Interestingly, Jackson’s comments came just a day before Polygon published statements from Secret Invasion director and executive producer Ali Selim, confirming that the show’s title sequence was created using AI. While Selim admitted that he didn’t really understand how the artificial intelligence works, he found it intriguing how AI could translate the sense of foreboding he wanted for the show. The use of AI technology allowed for flexibility and creativity in shaping the sequence.
Despite his cautiousness regarding the use of AI in Hollywood, Jackson seemed to genuinely enjoy his role as Nick Fury in the MCU. He humorously mentioned his concern about Marvel trying to kill off his character, as well as his disappointment about not being able to go to Wakanda. Jackson also expressed his wish to have been in other films, like Civil War, but wasn’t given an explanation as to why Nick Fury wasn’t included in those stories.
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While Secret Invasion wasn’t something Jackson actively advocated for, he always wanted to explore Nick Fury’s backstory before his involvement with superheroes. He described the series as gritty and dark, focusing on Fury’s time as a spy and his connections with people in the shadow world.
In conclusion, Samuel L. Jackson’s awareness of the role of AI in Hollywood has made him more cautious about allowing his likeness to be used without limitations. His experiences in franchises like Star Wars and the MCU have exposed him to the use of de-aging technology and scanning for digital reproduction. By taking control of his contracts and being selective with the language used, Jackson ensures that he maintains control over his own likeness. Despite any concerns, he continues to excel in his roles, like Nick Fury in Secret Invasion, where he explores the depths of his character’s backstory.
