Outrage Erupts Over AI Interview with Deceased Victim

The use of AI technology to interview a deceased school shooting victim’s avatar ignites ethical debates about media practices.

Story Snapshot

Jim Acosta conducted an interview with an AI version of Parkland shooting victim Joaquin Oliver.
The AI avatar was created by Oliver’s parents to advocate for gun control measures.
The interview raises ethical questions about using AI in media and advocacy.
The story highlights the intersection of AI technology, activism, and media ethics.

AI Avatar Used for Advocacy

Jim Acosta, known for his tenure at CNN, recently conducted an unprecedented interview with an AI-generated avatar of Joaquin Oliver, a victim of the 2018 Parkland school shooting. The interview, published on Acosta’s Substack, features the digital likeness of Oliver, answering questions about gun violence. The avatar, created by Manuel and Patricia Oliver, Joaquin’s parents, aims to promote gun control advocacy by delivering poignant messages to lawmakers and the public.

The Olivers debuted the AI avatar in 2024, seeking to amplify their advocacy efforts. The use of AI technology to represent deceased individuals is a growing trend, yet it remains controversial. While the technology has been applied in memorialization and celebrity likenesses, using it for political advocacy and interviews is rare. This approach has sparked discussions about the ethical implications of using digital avatars in such sensitive contexts.

Media Ethics in Question

The interview, released on what would have been Joaquin Oliver’s 25th birthday, has generated significant media attention and public debate. Critics question the ethics of using AI avatars of deceased individuals, arguing that it may exploit emotional vulnerabilities for political angling. The interview has revived discussions on media ethics and the potential for AI technology to manipulate public sentiment. Proponents, however, see it as a powerful tool for activism, offering a novel way to keep victims’ memories alive and push for legislative change.

Jim Acosta’s decision to feature the AI avatar on his platform underscores the evolving landscape of media and technology. The power dynamics between the Olivers, who control the avatar’s messaging, and Acosta, who amplifies it through his audience, highlight the complex relationships shaping this narrative. Media outlets continue to cover the story, examining its broader implications for journalism and advocacy.

Impact on Advocacy and Legislation

The short-term impact of the interview includes renewed focus on gun control advocacy, with discussions about mental health support and community engagement. The story emphasizes the need for stronger legislation to address gun violence, a cause the Olivers passionately support. In the long term, the use of AI avatars in political and social campaigns may set new precedents, raising questions about consent, authenticity, and the emotional impact on audiences.

The ethical debate surrounding AI technology in advocacy continues to evolve, with experts warning about the risks of deepfakes and digital resurrection. As AI becomes more integrated into media practices, calls for ethical guidelines and oversight may intensify. The broader industry effects could accelerate AI adoption in advocacy, prompting discussions about the role of technology in shaping public opinion and policy.