As AI technology advances throughout 2025, its powerful applications have also resulted in harmful and unsettling consequences, including unauthorized digital portrayals of public figures. Among those affected is Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, who has been the subject of numerous AI-generated videos shared online without his consent. These manipulative videos, some depicting James in shocking and inappropriate situations, have sparked concern and legal actions.
Details of the Inappropriate AI Videos Circulating Online
The troubling content includes highly controversial scenarios, such as videos portraying an AI version of Diddy sexually assaulting Steph Curry in prison while James appears as a passive bystander. Other clips show James as a homeless person, crouched with his tongue out, and even as an AI-generated pregnant individual. These videos gained millions of views via platforms like Instagram, raising alarms about the misuse of AI technology.
Tools Behind the Creation of These Fake Videos
The videos were created using the AI tool Interlink AI, which operates on a broader platform called FlickUp. This combination has allowed creators to produce and distribute these manipulated images and videos widely, contributing to the growth of nonconsensual digital content involving James and other public figures.
Legal Actions Taken by LeBron James’ Team To Halt Abuse
In response to the widespread dissemination of distorted videos, LeBron James’ legal representatives have issued cease-and-desist orders to users producing and sharing AI-generated content that depicts him as pregnant. This enforcement has resulted in the removal of at least three Instagram accounts responsible for posts that collectively amassed millions of views.
“At least three Instagram accounts that had garnered millions of views on nonconsensual AI videos of James have been deleted by Instagram. When asked by 404 Media whether it had received a cease-and-desist letter from James, Meta refused to comment,” —404 Media report
“LeBron James’ legal team has issued cease-and-desist letters to people creating AI-generated videos depicting him as pregnant, leading to their Instagram accounts being banned,” —NBACentral
The Broader Pattern of AI Misuse Against Public Figures
LeBron James is among numerous celebrities who have become victims of AI-generated video abuse, which raises ethical and legal issues about image rights and consent in the digital age. The ease of creating advanced AI content using platforms like FlickUp calls for intensified scrutiny to protect individuals from similar exploitation.
Jeff Teague Clarifies Controversial Comments About LeBron James
Separately, former NBA player Jeff Teague recently sparked debate by jokingly accusing LeBron James of steroid use during his Miami Heat tenure. The comment, made during a Club 520 podcast episode, drew social media attention before Teague quickly addressed the misunderstanding.
“Ya’ll weird. I was joking about Bron. He was just that dominant, chill,” —Jeff Teague
This episode underscores the intense attention surrounding LeBron James as both a sports icon and public figure, amid the controversies tied to his image.
Implications and the Path Forward in Digital Image Protection
The ongoing misuse of AI to create and spread harmful content about LeBron James highlights the urgent need for stronger legal frameworks and technological safeguards to prevent nonconsensual deepfakes and related media abuse. As AI tools become more sophisticated, public figures and platforms must collaborate to mitigate these risks and hold offenders accountable. LeBron James’ decisive legal actions could set a significant precedent in combating the unauthorized exploitation of AI-generated images.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does LeBron James sleep 12 hours?
A. Professional athletes use much more energy than average people, so they often sleep longer than the usual 8 hours. For example, LeBron James typically sleeps about 12 hours each night. This is notable because, despite frequent travel for games, elite athletes face challenges in getting enough restful sleep.