Sylvester McCoy, best known for his role as the seventh Doctor in the British television series "Doctor Who," has expressed concern over the impact of artificial intelligence on the acting profession. The 83-year-old actor, who also portrayed the wizard Radagast in "The Hobbit" film series, voiced his unease after encountering an unofficial, fan-created AI version of "Doctor Who" that garnered over half a million views online.

McCoy acknowledged the enthusiasm of fans striving to keep the iconic series alive but emphasized the potential risks that AI technology poses to the craft of acting. "People are desperate to keep Doctor Who alive, I get that," he said. "But I’m desperate to keep acting alive. I’m not really sympathetic to AI."

Reflecting on his own character’s experiences, McCoy noted that his Doctor often confronted advanced machines, drawing a parallel to the challenges AI may present to human performers. His remarks highlight a growing debate within the entertainment industry over the role of artificial intelligence in creating digital characters and potentially replacing human actors in certain creative capacities.

As AI-generated content becomes more prevalent, some industry professionals worry about its implications for artistic integrity, employment, and the future of storytelling. Others argue that technology can serve as a useful tool for creativity and entertainment, provided it is used responsibly.

McCoy’s viewpoint adds to an ongoing conversation about the balance between innovation and preservation in the evolving landscape of film and television production.