Zelda Williams calls for Robin Williams to be allowed to “rest” after false AI video

Director Zelda Williams condemned an artificial intelligence-generated video on Monday, September 21, 2026, that falsely depicts her father, Robin Williams, discussing conspiracy theories. She is urging an end to the use of his image and voice.

Presented as a private recording, the footage is entirely inauthentic, she explained in an Instagram story shared by People and Variety. Zelda Williams stated that she recognized an artificial voice, which is far removed from that of the actor.

Her anger is directed at both the internet users who believed the video and the individual responsible for its creation. She urged them to let her father “rest” and reminded that a deceased person cannot serve as a spokesperson for messages he never expressed.

The 37-year-old filmmaker has previously spoken out against digital recreations of Robin Williams. In 2023, she emphasized that deceased artists cannot consent to the exploitation of their likeness or voice. In 2025, she asked internet users to stop sending her AI-generated videos featuring her father.

Robin Williams, father of three, passed away on August 11, 2014, at the age of 63. The actor is still associated with films such as Good Will Hunting, Mrs. Doubtfire, and Dead Poets Society.