Morgan Freeman slams AI voice cloning, reflects on Mandela and six decades in film

Hollywood legend Morgan Freeman is opening up about artificial intelligence, legacy, and the craft that made him one of cinema’s most enduring figures.

Speaking ahead of the release of Now You See Me: Now You Don’t, the 88-year-old actor shared his frustrations with AI’s growing intrusion into the industry.

Freeman, whose voice has defined generations of storytelling, revealed that his legal team is pursuing multiple cases of AI companies replicating his voice without consent. “I’m like any other actor — don’t mimic me with falseness,” Freeman said. “If you’re gonna do it without me, you’re robbing me.”

The Shawshank Redemption star also criticized Hollywood’s use of AI-generated actors like Tilly Norwood, calling them “not real” and warning such technology could harm opportunities for human performers.

Reflecting on his illustrious six-decade career, Freeman recalled his early years in Mississippi, his near-turn as a fighter pilot, and his breakthrough with Street Smart in 1987. He went on to win an Oscar for Million Dollar Baby and earn another nomination for portraying Nelson Mandela in Invictus.

Freeman fondly remembered Mandela’s humility, saying, “Playing him was just a joy. He made me feel like I was in the presence of greatness.” Despite past health setbacks from a 2008 car crash, Freeman has no plans to retire anytime soon. “The appetite is still there,” he said. “It’s dimmed a little — but not enough to stop.”

Now You See Me: Now You Don’t releases in UK cinemas on November 14 and in Australia on November 13.