Imagine stepping into a convention hall and being greeted by a life-sized hologram of Stan Lee, the legendary Marvel Comics creator. This isn’t a sci-fi fantasy, but a reality at the upcoming LA Comic Con, where fans can interact with an AI-powered version of the beloved comic book icon.

The holographic experience, developed by Proto Hologram and Hyperreal, aims to create an interactive digital representation of Lee using decades of archival content. For a ticket price of $15 to $20, fans can engage in a 15-20 minute Q&A session with the AI avatar.

However, the announcement has sparked intense debate within the fan community. Many have criticized the concept as disrespectful, with reactions ranging from calling it “ghoulish” to “demonic”. Chris DeMoulin, CEO of LA Comic Con, defends the project, emphasizing that they’re not trying to “bring Stan back from the dead” but create an informative, respectful tribute.

The AI model has been carefully trained using Lee’s own words, panels, and archived content to ensure authenticity. The developers claim the hologram will redirect inappropriate questions and only speak using Lee’s documented perspectives and values.

Despite the controversy, the team behind the project remains committed to honoring Lee’s legacy. DeMoulin stresses that if thousands of fans dislike the experience, they’re prepared to discontinue the hologram.

As technology continues to push boundaries, this AI hologram represents a complex intersection of remembrance, innovation, and ethical considerations in the digital age. Whether this experiment will be seen as a heartfelt tribute or a step too far remains to be determined by the fans themselves.

The AI Stan Lee hologram will be available at LA Comic Con this weekend, inviting attendees to judge the experience for themselves.