Main content
Sorry, this episode is not currently available

Can AI Save Darth Vader?

Before his death James Earl Jones, voice of Vader, gave permission for his voice to be used in future films with the help of AI. But can a character live on after an actor's death?

Aleks and Kevin step into the world of actors 鈥渂anking鈥 their voices for use after death. With the help of AI your favourite actor can continue to appear on screen for years after they've gone. But what does that really mean? What鈥檚 a performance without the actor behind it?

Benjamin Field is the producer behind the AI Sir Michael Parkinson podcast, where the late interviewer talks to new guests thanks to AI technology. Benjamin explains how the technology works, and the ethical concerns that it poses. Plus he describes how he sees the technology as a way to create more work for actors.

Impressionist Alistair McGowan has portrayed everyone from Alfred Hitchcock to John Major to Boris Johnson. He explains that a voice is more than sound waves, but about soul, character and personal strength. Can those elements be replicated by AI? And do we want them to be?

Produced by Emily Esson
Researched by Juliet Conway

A 大象传媒 Audio Scotland production.

Release date:

28 minutes

On radio

Next Wednesday 15:30

Broadcast

  • Next Wednesday 15:30

Podcast