Val Kilmer AI Role: Actor Recreated for As Deep as the Grave

Val Kilmer Returns to the Screen: Late Actor Recreated via AI for ‘As Deep as the Grave’

The actor’s estate has authorized a generative AI version of Kilmer to co-star as a Catholic priest in the upcoming independent film.

Sofia Chen

Mar 18, 2026, 2:02 PM PT · 2 min read

Val Kilmer and 50 Cent — Photo: Keith HInkle / CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

THE RUNDOWN

Val Kilmer will posthumously co-star in the film 'As Deep as the Grave.'
Generative AI will recreate Kilmer’s digital likeness and unique voice.
The actor passed away in April 2025 before he could film his scenes.
He plays Father Fintan, a role designed around his personal heritage.
Children Mercedes and Jack Kilmer authorized the use of his AI likeness.

It is the comeback moviegoers didn't expect. The late Val Kilmer, who passed away in April 2025, is set to appear on the big screen once again. Through the power of generative AI, Kilmer will co-star in the new independent film As Deep as the Grave. While he originally signed on to the project before his death, health issues kept him from the set, leading his estate to approve a digital recreation of his likeness and voice.

Kilmer takes on the poignant role of Father Fintan, a Catholic priest and Native American spiritualist. The character was reportedly crafted with the actor’s own heritage and personal spiritual experiences in mind. According to reports from AP News and The Guardian, the production team is using advanced technology to ensure the digital performance captures the nuances of Kilmer’s legendary acting style.

The move has the full support of his family. His children, Mercedes Kilmer and Jack Kilmer, gave their permission for the use of the digital technology to complete the role their father was passionate about. As reported by Vulture, this project highlights the growing trend of using generative AI to preserve the legacies of iconic performers, allowing them to finish the stories they started.