Ai revivals of deceased public figures spark fascination and backlash

Monday 22 December 2025 - 10:00

By: Sahili Aya

Ai revivals of deceased public figures spark fascination and backlash

In a surreal digital landscape, long-deceased public figures are being brought back to life through artificial intelligence, often in ways that are humorous, absurd, or deeply disturbing. Hyperrealistic videos generated by AI tools have flooded social media platforms, triggering both amusement and outrage, while raising urgent questions about ethics and control over the image of the deceased.

Advanced video-generation applications, widely accessible to the public, can now recreate historical figures and celebrities with striking realism. Former world leaders, iconic musicians, and cultural symbols appear in fictional scenes ranging from playful antics to shocking and offensive behavior. While some clips are shared for entertainment, others have crossed ethical boundaries.

Families of several deceased personalities have publicly denounced these practices. Relatives argue that seeing a loved one digitally manipulated can be emotionally distressing and disrespectful, especially when the content is humiliating or racist. Experts describe this phenomenon as entering the “uncanny valley,” where near-perfect realism creates discomfort and psychological unease.

Technology companies developing these tools claim to be implementing safeguards. They argue that freedom of expression allows the representation of historical figures, but acknowledge that recently deceased individuals and their families should have a say in how images are used. In response to complaints, restrictions have been placed on certain figures, though critics say these measures are insufficient.

Researchers and digital security specialists warn that the problem extends beyond famous individuals. Ordinary people who have passed away could also be digitally recreated without consent, opening the door to manipulation, misinformation, and erosion of trust online. As AI-generated content becomes more prevalent, experts fear it will blur the line between reality and fabrication.

Ultimately, the concern is not only whether people believe fake content, but whether they will continue to trust real information at all. As AI tools rapidly evolve, calls for stronger regulation and ethical standards are growing louder.