Late Hollywood actor Val Kilmer is set to appear in a new film nearly a year after his death, with filmmakers using advanced artificial intelligence to complete his unfinished role.
According to reports, Kilmer had been cast in As Deep as the Grave but was unable to complete filming due to illness before his death in April 2025 from pneumonia.
Director and writer Quarte Vorhees said the production team chose not to recast the role and instead used generative AI technology to recreate the actor’s likeness, voice and performance.
The filmmaker confirmed that formal permission was obtained from Kilmer’s family and estate before proceeding with the project.
The role, specifically written for Kilmer, features him as Father Fenton a Catholic priest with Native American spiritual dimensions. Vorhees said budget constraints and the inability to reshoot scenes led the team to adopt AI as a solution.
Kilmer’s daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, also endorsed the decision, noting that her father had always embraced new technologies and innovative storytelling methods.
The development reflects a growing trend in the film industry where AI is being used to preserve and extend performances, raising both creative possibilities and ethical debates.