Two years after the death of Suzanne Somers, the cult actress from the hit series "Step by Step," her husband Alan Hamel has unveiled a project as technological as it is disturbing: a digital version of his wife created using artificial intelligence. Presented as larger than life, this "AI Suzanne" could soon converse with her fans, and even give them wellness advice, 24 hours a day.
A digital copy nourished by Suzanne's memories and writings
Suzanne Somers, who died in October 2023 at the age of 76 after a long battle with cancer, reportedly suggested creating a virtual double who could stay in touch with her fans before her death. "I think we should do that," she reportedly told her husband in an interview with People magazine.
Alan Hamel, now 89, spent months developing this digital clone, dubbed Suzanne AI Twin. To make it as realistic as possible, he compiled his wife's 27 published books, hundreds of filmed interviews, and numerous television appearances. The artificial intelligence was trained to replicate her voice, expressions, and speech reflexes. "When I look at them both side by side, I really can't tell which one is the real one and which one is the AI," he said during a conference, according to People.
A private demonstration of this AI has already taken place, and the spectators present were amazed. Alan Hamel even recounts having a conversation with this digital version, which reportedly responded to him "as Suzanne would have." After 55 years together, he believes this technology allows him to prolong their bond. But this virtual "resurrection" already raises moral questions.
A virtual presence serving well-being… and commerce
Alan Hamel's ambition doesn't stop at a simple tribute. The Suzanne Somers clone is also intended to become an interactive tool: it will soon host a website where fans can ask questions, particularly about health and well-being. This digital Suzanne will respond by drawing on the writings of the actress, who specialized in these subjects throughout her career. The site will be available permanently and will also be intended to promote dietary supplements.
This project has worried some observers, as several of the actress's positions, particularly on chemotherapy, have been deemed dangerous by experts. The American Cancer Society had even warned against some of her comments, as NBC News recalled in 2009. Despite this, Alan Hamel claims that the advice given by the AI has been validated by the company Life Extension, which specializes in natural health products.
Between emotional memory, technological prowess, and business strategy, Suzanne Somers's "return" through artificial intelligence arouses both fascination and unease. While the project gives her loved ones the illusion of never saying goodbye, it also questions our relationship with death, memory, and the limits of digital tributes.
