ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Generative AI Enables Posthumous Performance by Val Kilmer in Upcoming Film

digital · 2026-03-19

First Line Films announced on Wednesday that the late actor Val Kilmer will appear in the movie 'As Deep as the Grave' through generative artificial intelligence. Kilmer, known for roles in films like 'Top Gun' and 'Batman Forever,' had been cast as Father Fintan but could not participate due to health issues from throat cancer. This marks the first time such AI technology has been used to enable a performance by a deceased actor.

Key facts

  • Val Kilmer will appear posthumously in 'As Deep as the Grave' using generative AI
  • First Line Films announced the project on Wednesday
  • Kilmer was originally cast as Father Fintan but could not work due to throat cancer complications

Entities

Artists

Institutions

  • First Line Films

Sources