Hanks has previously spoken about the “artistic challenge” that AI poses his industry, and the issue has been central to recent strikes by high-profile Hollywood actors and writers.
As AI systems have grown in power and sophistication, so have concerns about their ability to create ever more realistic virtual versions of real people - what are sometimes called deepfakes. A number of celebrities - including the consumer financial expert, Martin Lewis - have had their likenesses used in deepfakes, which are often used to scam people.
AI video manipulation can also be used in non-controversial ways - for example, the pioneering virtual concerts featuring the band Abba.
The possibility of AI being used to extend the careers of performing artists was one Hanks discussed when he appeared on the Adam Buxton podcast in May.
“We saw this coming, we saw that there was going to be this ability to take zeros and ones from inside a computer and turn it into a face and a character. That has only grown a billion-fold since then and we see it everywhere,” he said. “Anybody can now recreate themselves at any age they are by way of AI or deepfake technology. I could be hit by a bus tomorrow and that’s it, but performances can go on and on and on and on.”
Nothing is real … or is it … 