Can AI Replace Superstars Like Amitabh, Shah Rukh..

New Delhi : Renowned filmmaker Shekhar Kapur has sparked a fresh debate in the entertainment world with his bold statement that the future of cinema doesn’t depend on megastars like Amitabh Bachchan or Shah Rukh Khan. Speaking at a recent media event, Kapur claimed that with the rise of artificial intelligence, filmmakers will soon be able to create their own virtual stars—complete with copyrighted identities and personalities—thus changing the way films are cast and made.

Kapur, known for directing critically acclaimed films like Mr. India and Bandit Queen, expressed his belief that the days of relying solely on human superstars are numbered. He said he is already exploring the idea of developing an AI-generated actor tailored to his specific vision. This AI star, he added, will be fully copyright-protected and could be reused across films without concerns of aging, availability, or creative differences.

His comments quickly drew attention as he specifically mentioned that he wouldn’t need icons like Amitabh Bachchan or Shah Rukh Khan anymore to make successful films. According to Kapur, AI will allow directors to build stars from scratch—designing their looks, voice, personality traits, and even their emotional range. Once programmed, these virtual actors can deliver performances indistinguishable from real humans with the help of advanced animation and voice synthesis technologies.

Industry reactions have been mixed. While some see this as a groundbreaking innovation that could democratize filmmaking and cut down production costs, others have expressed concern over the emotional depth and authenticity that only real actors can bring. Critics also worry about the ethical implications and potential job losses in an industry already struggling with the impact of digital disruption.

Kapur, however, remains firm in his belief that this technological shift is not only inevitable but also empowering for creative professionals. He stated that AI will enable directors to focus more on storytelling, without the limitations and commercial pressures often associated with celebrity-led projects. He also hinted at working on an international film where an AI actor might play a central role.

The filmmaker’s comments have stirred strong discussions across social media platforms and film circles, hinting at a future where the line between real and virtual stardom could blur beyond recognition.