Actor and filmmaker Mark Wahlberg has expressed support for using artificial intelligence in movie production and said he would consider creating an AI-generated replica of himself for future projects. Speaking at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 in San Francisco, Wahlberg discussed how the technology could assist filmmakers while preserving the roles of human actors and writers.
The actor also revealed that AI could be used in his upcoming biographical film about baseball player Pete Rose, in which he will portray the lead character. He said the technology could help improve certain production elements without replacing traditional filmmaking methods.
Wahlberg Considers AI for Upcoming Pete Rose Biopic
Wahlberg said the Pete Rose film could use AI to improve visual elements, particularly the recreation of baseball stadium environments. The technology could help filmmakers develop complex scenes while managing the production costs associated with large-scale settings.
However, he distinguished between using AI to support existing productions and relying on it to generate complete films. Wahlberg said he does not support creating an entire screenplay through ChatGPT and producing the resulting movie without involving human actors.
The actor emphasized that storytelling should remain the primary focus of filmmaking, regardless of advances in visual effects technology. He referenced films such as Jurassic Park and The Perfect Storm as examples of productions that introduced audiences to significant developments in computer-generated imagery.
Wahlberg explained that his experience working on effects-heavy movies has strengthened his preference for stories that prioritize characters and narratives. He believes AI should be used to support those elements rather than replace the creative process.
Wahlberg Open to AI Replica for Future Productions
During the discussion, TechCrunch editor-in-chief Connie Loizos asked Wahlberg whether he had visited the CAA Vault, a facility developed by Creative Artists Agency to create detailed digital replicas of performers.
The facility uses scanning technology to capture actors’ bodies, faces, movements, and voices, allowing their digital likenesses to be preserved for potential future projects. Wahlberg said he had not visited the facility but would be interested in exploring its capabilities.
He also suggested that his children and grandchildren could eventually manage his digital likeness and determine how it should be used in future films. Such an arrangement could allow his image to appear in productions even when he is no longer able to participate personally.
AI Could Allow Ted Franchise to Continue for Decades
Wahlberg also discussed the possibility of using an AI-generated version of himself in future installments of Ted, the comedy franchise associated with his earlier films. He said he would not oppose the upcoming animated series continuing for decades if audiences remained interested.
The actor suggested that AI could allow established characters and entertainment franchises to continue beyond the careers of their original performers. However, he emphasized that such decisions should reflect audience demand and the continued relevance of the productions.
His comments come as Hollywood continues debating the use of AI in film and television, particularly regarding digital replicas, creative ownership, and the roles of actors and writers.
Featured image credits: Wikimedia Commons
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