I'm the VC who created AI Scott Adams. Here's why I'm continuing the project, despite his family's objections.
Business Insider
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
John Arrow, an AI venture capitalist, has created a groundbreaking project featuring a posthumous AI replica of the late cartoonist Scott Adams. Despite facing objections from Adams' family, Arrow insists he is honoring Adams' explicit wishes to be memorialized through AI. Adams repeatedly expressed his desire to contribute to the world by becoming an AI after his death, providing clear public consent for such a project. Arrow and his brother developed this initiative in response to Adams' cancer diagnosis, accelerating it after his passing.
The project, which generates AI podcasts and videos using deepfake technology, aims to preserve Adams' legacy. Each episode costs over $1,000 due to the complex process of creating content that aligns with Adams' voice and style. Arrow's model was trained on extensive transcripts from Adams' podcast, analyzing his tone, cadence, and references to current events. While not claiming to perfectly replicate Adams, the project strives to evolve based on feedback, improving over time as it learns from user interactions.
From a business perspective, this venture highlights the intersection of AI technology and legacy preservation, offering insights into potential applications for other notable figures. It raises questions about respecting individuals' wishes regarding their digital afterlife while addressing ethical concerns, particularly when family members disagree. Arrow's approach underscores the importance of legal and technical rigor in executing such projects, emphasizing that honoring a person's explicit desires can drive meaningful innovation.
This project also touches on broader cultural and technological trends, including the feasibility of AI-driven legacy projects and the potential for similar ventures to impact industries like content creation, education, and entertainment. While challenges remain, Arrow's dedication to preserving Adams' influence through AI serves as a compelling example of how technology can be used to honor an individual's vision beyond their lifetime.
For readers interested in business and technology, this story illustrates the growing role of AI in shaping cultural legacies and the ethical considerations involved. It also highlights the potential for innovative ventures that blend personal ambition with technological advancement, offering valuable insights into future developments in AI applications.
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/23/2026