Nowadays, AI seems to have gone too far, as proven by viral social media videos of celebrities such as actors, politicians, and athletes. Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James is one of the most frequently featured players in these viral AI videos. According to 404 media, the NBA legend was recently featured in a video depicted as pregnant. After this, his legal team banned several Instagram accounts that produced films generated by these AI.
LeBron James cracks down on virus AI videos to protect his image and set legal precedent
The incompatible community and makers of AI tools that allow NBA players to create AI videos have allegedly received a suspension and assumed letter from LeBron James' lawyer. This is one of the first instances when a well-known celebrity threatened to sue an AI company using their own unconsensual AI images.Furthermore, it is one of the first examples of how celebrities have taken legal action against a form of AI-generated content that is widely available on social media platforms but not exactly NSFW content. The source said: “At least three Instagram accounts that have won millions of opinions on James' unconsensual AI videos have been removed by Instagram. When asked by 404 Media whether they received a suspension and assumed letter from James, Meta declined to comment.”Additionally, one mod said in a discrepancy post:“This change has chosen to take a proactive approach and remove all realistic likeness from the site after encountering legal issues involving highly regarded basketball players to avoid further complications.”LeBron James also noticed an increase in this type of content. Additionally, it has been reported that many popular Instagram accounts that posted players' “Brainrot” videos have been banned.Additionally, according to Dexerto, Tiktok's video featuring Lebron James' artificial intelligence representation dominated most platforms in 2025.
Lebron James is an NBA legend (pictured via Facebook/Lebron James)
The NBA player took legal action to prevent the use of his likeness in the AI video after the viral video quickly grabbed his attention. An important step is being taken by taking legal action against the unapproved use of celebrity similarity in AI-generated content. This action could establish standards for how public personalities and athletes protect their reputation and brands in the digital age of AI.Also Read: LeBron James may retire after the 2025-26 season when the Los Angeles Lakers delay extension
