Will Smith is facing some heat for using AI in a recent video promoting his summer tour. He kicked off the UK leg of his “Based on a True Story” tour in Scarborough on August 24, supporting his latest album.
In a clip shared on his YouTube channel, Smith expressed joy in seeing fans up close. However, many viewers have pointed out that the video seems to rely heavily on AI-generated footage, showing fans with odd features like distorted faces and excessively digitized hands. For instance, one audience shot features a man holding a sign thanking Smith for helping him through cancer. But the image is blurry, causing confusion about the authenticity.
Fans have voiced their concerns in the comments, calling the video’s depiction of crowds as “fake.” One critic remarked, “Imagine being this famous and needing AI footage… Tragic.” Another viewer noted the low quality of the clips and questioned why traditional cinematography was abandoned for digital tricks.
AI is a hot topic in the music industry right now. As artists increasingly rely on technology to enhance their work, many are also calling for measures to protect their creations from misuse. This debate gained traction recently when Rod Stewart was criticized for an AI-driven tribute to Ozzy Osbourne during a concert.
Smith’s album, released in March, marked his return to music after two decades. Despite mixed reviews—one critic labeled the lyrics as “half-baked”—it features themes like resilience and redemption.
Smith’s UK tour continues, transitioning to Cardiff next. The attention surrounding the AI debate in his promotional content might influence how artists approach technology in the future.
For further insights into the impact of AI on creative industries, see this report from the World Economic Forum.