Here’s Why Some People Think The Viral AI Fight Between Tom Cruise And Brad Pitt Was Kind Of A Scam
Kotaku
by Jen LennonFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The article discusses a viral video featuring Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt "fighting," which was initially believed to be AI-generated. However, new evidence suggests the video was created using face replacement technology rather than advanced AI. This revelation raises questions about the authenticity of similar viral content, as many viewers may have mistakenly assumed it involved cutting-edge AI.
Face replacement, a common visual effects technique, involves swapping faces in existing footage using software like Deepfake or other tools. While impressive, this method doesn't require true AI generation but instead uses pre-existing data to create convincing yet static alterations. The video likely relied on such techniques, making the illusion appear more complex than it actually is.
This distinction matters for gaming enthusiasts and tech followers, as advancements in face replacement could enhance game development by allowing realistic character portrayals without generating entirely new AI models. Understanding this technology helps demystify viral
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Originally published on Kotaku on 2/20/2026