Overview

• Jim Acosta aired the AI-generated interview on August 4, marking what would have been Oliver’s 25th birthday at his parents’ request.
• The avatar, trained on Joaquin’s social media posts, spoke with a metallic tone and jerky movements that critics said undermined its authenticity.
• Commentators and viewers across the political spectrum labeled the segment exploitative and emotionally manipulative.
• Manuel and Patricia Oliver maintain the AI simulation honors their son’s memory and advances his message on gun violence.
• Ethicists and media experts are intensifying discussions on clear ethical and legal boundaries for AI-driven recreations of the deceased.