Will Smith Accused of Using AI to Create Fans in Promotional Tour Video
Will Smith is facing accusations of using artificial intelligence to generate fake fans in a promotional video for his Based on a True Story tour. The clip, which he shared on Instagram last week, shows him performing his song “You Can Make It.” At one point, the camera pans to the audience where several fans are seen holding signs of support. Viewers quickly pointed out distortions suggesting the crowd may have been digitally altered.
One sign read, “‘You Can Make It’ helped me survive cancer. THX Will,” as reported by The Independent. However, the man holding it appeared to have his hand blending into the sign, raising suspicions. Other members of the audience displayed similar irregularities, fueling claims that the crowd was AI-generated.
Fans in the comments were divided. “Why are these AI people in the crowd? That’s embarrassing,” one user wrote. Another added, “That ‘From West Philly’ part is clearly AI-generated… pause and look at the crowd.” Supporters, however, praised Smith for his message. “You already changed my life @willsmith & now I’m honored to change hundreds of thousands with you on stage. More Love, Joy, and NOISE to the world!!” one fan commented.
The controversy comes just months after Smith returned to music with Based on a True Story, his first album in 20 years. Released in March, the project includes features from Big Sean, Russ, Joyner Lucas, Jaden Smith, and others. His last full-length effort before this was Lost and Found in 2005.
To promote the album, Smith announced his first-ever headline tour earlier this year. “I’M GOING ON TOUR THIS SUMMER!!” he wrote on Instagram in March. “All these years, I’ve NEVER done a headline tour and I can’t wait to see you guys!!” The Based on a True Story tour began in June and will run through September, marking a milestone in Smith’s career as both an actor and musician.
While the AI accusations remain unconfirmed, the incident highlights growing skepticism around the use of artificial intelligence in entertainment. For Smith, the controversy adds an unexpected layer of attention to his long-awaited musical comeback.
