Robin Williams’s children have reactivated their late father’s dormant Instagram account in response to unauthorized AI replicas of him. Williams passed away on August 11, 2014, at the age of 63, with an autopsy revealing he had Lewy body dementia.
Zak, Zelda, and Cody Williams made a statement on Monday marking the first post on the “therobinwilliams” Instagram account since July 31, 2014. They emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe and authentic platform to honor their father’s legacy through genuine stories, photos, videos, and memories.
The trio aims to share their father’s exceptional talent and humor with the world, reminiscing about the moments that brought joy and laughter to many. Robin Williams had a successful career in film, television, and theater, gaining fame from the sitcom “Mork & Mindy” (1978-82) and starring in iconic movies like “Good Morning Vietnam” (1987) and “Dead Poets Society” (1989).
He received an Academy Award for his supporting role in “Good Will Hunting” (1997) and a special Golden Globe Award for voicing Genie in “Aladdin” (1992). AI-generated videos of Williams surfaced online, featuring him in various scenarios, including podcasts, stand-up comedy acts, and humorous commentary on the movie “Jurassic Park.”
OpenAI recently shut down its video creation and social media app, Sora, after facing backlash for generating controversial videos of public figures like Williams. Zelda Williams, an actor and director, has been outspoken against AI reproductions of her father, urging fans to refrain from sending her such videos as they do not align with his wishes.
Zelda explained that reviving her father’s Instagram account serves as a defense against AI exploitation, providing a space for authentic clips and photos that represent him genuinely. Actor Matthew Lawrence, who co-starred with Williams in “Mrs. Doubtfire,” expressed interest in using AI to preserve Williams’s iconic voice but stressed the importance of obtaining the family’s consent.
Similarly, Bernice King, the daughter of Martin Luther King Jr., has also condemned the use of her father’s likeness in AI applications. The digital replication of late actor Val Kilmer, who passed away last year, will feature in the upcoming film “As Deep As the Grave,” with his estate granting permission for the AI representation and receiving compensation.