MICHAEL PARKINSON TO BE REPLICATED BY AI FOR NEW PODCAST SERIES

The late Sir Michael Parkinson will be "replicated" by AI to host a new interview podcast series produced by Deep Fusion Films. Planned for release this year, the project has the "full support and involvement of Michael Parkinson’s family and his Estate".

The podcast will be a "completely unscripted conversation between a guest and an AI version of Sir Michael Parkinson". The AI Michael Parkinson is built using "knowledge garnered from his career, including his back-catalogue of over 2000 interviews" which "enables AI Michael to converse in an authentic manner and offers podcast guests a true-to-life experience."

Caitlin Meek-O’Connor, director of Night Train Digital, said "We couldn’t be more proud to announce this as Night Train Digital’s first major commission. Through this partnership with the team at Deep Fusion, we are creating innovative new content as well as being trusted with such an iconic archive to bring Michael Parkinson to global audiences some of whom have been fans for decades, others who will be discovering him for the first time."

Benjamin Field, co-founder, executive producer for Deep Fusion Films said: "Mike Parkinson suggested using his father’s voice to present a podcast where AI Michael discussed his most notable interviews, which sparked a creative conversation...

"Building on this, we explored using AI to emulate Parkinson’s iconic interview style, appealing to modern audiences while honouring his legacy. By focusing on the ethics and openly showcasing the AI aspect, we saw a way to create something truly engaging for both longtime fans and new listeners."

More details will be announced in due course.