Lawrence Ng, 62, Sells Image Rights To His Younger Self For AI Film; Gets "Quite A Good Payout" Without Having To Act

There are celebrities who are deeply concerned that AI could replace them.

But Hong Kong actor Lawrence Ng? He sees it as another income stream.

At a recent promotional event for his new crime drama Deadly Sins, the 62-year-old revealed that he has ventured into the AI film industry.

Lawrence has licensed the likeness rights to his younger self to a production company, which is using AI to recreate his 20-year-old self for a feature film.

"They used what I looked like at 20 to make a movie. I didn't have to film anything. I've seen the finished product and I'm very satisfied with it," he said.

"It also gave me the chance to relive what it feels like to be the male lead again."

Lawrence added that the agreement is backed by a comprehensive contract, so he isn't worried about his likeness being misused and believes his rights are fully protected.

​He also candidly admitted that "the payout is quite good".

When asked whether he thinks AI will take work away from actors, Lawrence said he sees it as opening up a new career path instead.

Joking about the possibilities, he quipped: "In the future, I can just sit there without filming anything and still get the job done. Even if I break my legs [and can't work anymore], I won't have to worry."

Lawrence also averred that AI-generated performances and traditional live acting can coexist, and that having another way for actors to work could be a positive development for the industry.