MCU Star Simu Liu Hits Back At Hollywood AI Usage After Millionaire’s Blockbuster “Advice”

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Technology is changing incredibly quickly, and artificial intelligence is now a big part of everyday life. AI was a major point of contention during the 2023 Hollywood strikes, with actors and writers seeking protections against its use. Despite these concerns, filmmakers are still exploring ways to incorporate AI into their work. The recent debut of Tilly Norwood, an actress created using AI, caused a lot of debate, showing that this issue won’t be resolved soon. Kevin O’Leary, known as an investor on Shark Tank, recently shared his opinion, which has upset many people working in Hollywood.

I was really struck by a recent conversation about the use of AI in filmmaking. Actor Stephen O’Leary, who was in Marty Supreme, suggested that filmmakers could save a ton of money by using AI to create background actors instead of hiring real people. It sparked a debate online, and Marvel’s Simu Liu rightfully called him out on it. Liu pointed out that it’s unfair to target the extras, who are already earning a modest wage, instead of addressing the high salaries of those in leading roles. Filmmaker Steven DeKnight agreed, saying O’Leary’s comments were pretty insensitive and out of touch.

It’s easy to criticize the background actors earning $15 to $22 an hour, who are just trying to get by, instead of focusing on the highly paid stars and producers making millions.

— Simu Liu (@SimuLiu) October 24, 2025

I’m with Simu. This is insulting and tone deaf.

— Steven DeKnight (@stevendeknight) October 24, 2025

Why Kevin O’Leary’s AI Advice Is Wrong

O’Leary suggested using AI actors to save money and fund another movie. While it’s true that film budgets are often very high – even Marvel is trying to cut costs – eliminating jobs for background actors isn’t the answer. As Liu points out, extras’ salaries represent a small portion of the overall budget, and those earning the most could afford to reduce their pay. Highly paid stars don’t always need such large salaries, especially now that movie theaters are less predictable financially.

Working as an extra on a movie or TV show can be a great way for actors just starting out to get their foot in the door. While extras may not have a lot of screen time, or even any at all, it’s a valuable opportunity to network with other professionals in the industry. Building these relationships can lead to bigger and better roles in the future. Simu Liu, who now plays Shang-Chi in Marvel films, used to work as an extra and a stunt performer, so he understands firsthand how important these experiences can be. Losing the need for extras would be a significant setback for many aspiring actors.

It’s a bit surprising to hear O’Leary’s comments considering the reported production cost of Marty Supreme, which was between $60 and $70 million. Compared to today’s blockbuster movies that often cost around $200 million to make, Marty Supreme was actually quite affordable. Although it likely won’t earn as much at the box office as a major franchise like Star Wars or Marvel, it still has a good chance of becoming profitable. Movies can earn money in many ways, and with revenue from rentals and home media sales added in, Marty Supreme could end up making a profit overall.

During the recent SAG-AFTRA strike negotiations, studios suggested digitally scanning background actors and paying them only for one day’s work. This would have allowed the studios to use the actor’s likeness in films and TV shows forever without further payment. The current agreement includes safeguards against this kind of AI use, but the issue remains a major concern for the film industry. That’s why it’s crucial for filmmakers like Liu and DeKnight to keep advocating for responsible AI practices.

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2025-10-24 21:12