Ex-CNN Host Faces Backlash Over AI Interview With Deceased Parkland Victim

Jim Acosta, former CNN anchor now active on Substack, faced widespread backlash after conducting an interview with an AI-generated recreation of Joaquin Oliver, a victim of the 2018 Parkland school shooting. The AI portrayed Oliver advocating for stronger gun control laws, mental health support, and community engagement, sparking ethical concerns and criticism from various commentators who found the use of a deceased child's likeness for political messaging exploitative and inappropriate. Despite the outrage from both left- and right-leaning observers, Joaquin Oliver's parents defended the segment, explaining that they collaborated with Acosta to use AI technology to deliver their son's message on gun violence. Social media responses were overwhelmingly negative, with some calling the interview a new low and accusing Acosta of exploiting tragedy for clicks. The controversy highlights ongoing debates over the use of AI in journalism and the boundaries of respectful discourse around sensitive topics like school shootings. Acosta has not publicly responded to the criticism.