Catherine Zeta-Jones says she prefers real people to AI actors

Catherine Zeta-Jones says she would rather see human performers than AI actors. In comments filmed in London, the actor said people who have “given themselves over to an AI company” are making their own choice, before adding: “But I like going to the theater and seeing real people talk.”

The remarks in the Catherine Zeta-Jones AI actors discussion were filmed on Sept. 24, according to an Associated Press Archive video. The footage was dated Sept. 28 and uploaded by AP Archive on Oct. 3.

What did Catherine Zeta-Jones say about AI actors?

Zeta-Jones did not call for a ban or policy against AI performers. She framed the decision by other actors to work with AI companies as a personal one, while making clear that her own viewing preference is for people performing in front of her.

Her point also extended beyond AI. Zeta-Jones said she likes watching films without knowing performers’ private lives, including details about their relationships, clothes, morning routines or appearance.

She said she wants a film to carry her into the role being played: “I want to be taken away and see a character.”

That distance between performer and role is part of how she watches other actors, too. In the AP Archive footage, Zeta-Jones said she sometimes tries to put aside what she knows about someone she is watching so she can focus on the show.

Deadline reported the comments on Oct. 10, describing Zeta-Jones’ preference for “real people” in her art. The actor is identified in the coverage as a star of Kill Jackie.

The short interview presents a personal view of acting and moviegoing, rather than a wider claim about how AI should be used in entertainment.

This story draws on original reporting from Deadline.