Mark Hamill Discusses AI Deepfakes and ‘SpongeBob Movie’ Role

Mark Hamill has experienced a whirlwind year defined by both personal challenges and professional milestones. In January, he lost his home in the Palisades fires, leading to a forced relocation for his family. Despite these difficulties, the 74-year-old actor has been in the spotlight, promoting several major projects, including “The Life of Chuck” and “The SpongeBob Movie: Searching for SquarePants,” where he voices the iconic Flying Dutchman.

Mark Hamill’s Active Year and Project Highlights

Hamill reflected on his busy schedule, stating, “You can’t really control it, but this was a really, really active year.” He has no upcoming projects lined up but acknowledges that this year has been extraordinary. In addition to voice work for “SpongeBob,” he is involved in adapting Stephen King’s “The Long Walk.”

Moving Beyond “Star Wars”

Hamill reprised his legendary role as Luke Skywalker in recent “Star Wars” projects but has shifted his focus as he considers retirement. He wishes to leave the industry with dignity, emphasizing the importance of an actor’s exit. His latest role in Mike Flanagan’s “The Fall of the House of Usher” re-energized his passion for acting, allowing him to explore diverse characters.

• Lost Home: Hamill’s residence was lost in the January Palisades fires.
• Projects: Current projects include “The Life of Chuck” and “The SpongeBob Movie.”
• Voice Role: Hamill voices the Flying Dutchman in “The SpongeBob Movie.”
• Industry Reflection: He is wary of the implications of AI in film.

Concerns about AI Deepfakes

As technology evolves, Hamill has expressed concern about AI-generated content and its potential impact on legacy. He mentioned that fans can now generate short videos with “Star Wars” characters through Disney’s partnership with OpenAI. This blend of innovation and apprehension has led him to discuss his family’s wishes regarding his involvement in future projects long after he is gone.

Embarking on New Roles

For his role as the Flying Dutchman, Hamill initially thought he was voicing a new character. However, he discovered that the character had been previously portrayed by Brian Doyle-Murray. Feeling inspired yet intimidated, he opted to create his version without listening to prior performances.

• Character Approach: Hamill aimed for a unique interpretation of the Flying Dutchman.
• Voice Acting Freedom: He appreciates the opportunity to portray various roles through voice acting.

Legacy and Future Outlook

Hamill maintains a strong connection to his iconic roles and acknowledges his responsibility to give back. Through engagements with charities like Make-A-Wish and his cautious approach to social media, he seeks to make a positive impact. He steps away from platforms where he feels the ethos does not align with his values.

As Hamill navigates this new chapter in his career, he remains a beloved figure who continues to bring joy and escapism through his performances, particularly in projects like “The SpongeBob Movie.”