Kevin O'Leary: AI Extras Could Save Millions

Kevin O'Leary said on The Hill's World of Travel podcast that A24's Marty Supreme — his acting debut — could have “saved millions” by using AI-generated background extras instead of roughly 150 human extras on many scenes. He pointed to the AI-created figure Tilly Norwood (which he sometimes misnamed) and argued unions should permit AI for non-speaking background roles because audiences “can't tell the difference.” SAG-AFTRA and others pushed back, warning that AI performers threaten livelihoods and devalue human artistry. O'Leary also described other AI projects, including an AI version of himself and AI music ventures, and said he is pursuing UAE citizenship to further develop AI work. Marty Supreme, directed by Josh Safdie and starring Timothée Chalamet (with O'Leary playing Gwyneth Paltrow's husband), is scheduled for release on Christmas Day, and A24 declined to comment on his remarks.