Chat show legend Michael Parkinson to host AI podcast series from beyond the grave
The AI Michael Parkinson is produced by Deep Fusion Films
New digital content agency Night Train Digital has made its first major commission with a greenlight for podcast series Virtually Parkinson, to be hosted by an AI version of late UK chat show host Sir Michael Parkinson.
The eight-part series is produced by Deep Fusion Films (DFF), the Welsh prodco that claims to use artificial intelligence (AI) technology in an ethical way.
To be launched in the coming months, Virtually Parkinson will see guests interviewed by a computer-generated replica of broadcaster Parkinson, who presented talk show Parkinson on the BBC (1971-1982) and ITV (1998-2007) and died in August of 2023.
The series has been made, DFF says, with the full support of Parkinson’s family and Estate.
Cardiff-based DFF was launched in 2023 by Andrew Keats and Benjamin Field. The prodco has developed a slate of AI-derived projects, including Gerry Anderson: A Life Uncharted, a film about the Thunderbirds creator which used deepfake technology to bring Anderson back to the screen.
It was that film which caused Parkinson’s son, Mike Parkinson, to approach DFF with the idea of creating a podcast series using his late father’s voice.
Night Train Media Group-owned Night Train Digital (NTD), rolled out last month, also manage the official Michael Parkinson YouTube channel.
Caitlin Meek-O’Connor, director, NTD, said: “We couldn’t be more proud to announce this as Night Train Digital’s first major commission.
“Through this partnership with the team at Deep Fusion, we are creating innovative new content as well as being trusted with such an iconic archive to bring Michael Parkinson to global audiences some of whom have been fans for decades, others who will be discovering him for the first time.”
Benjamin Field, co-founder and executive producer, DFF, said: “We explored using AI to emulate Parkinson’s iconic interview style, appealing to modern audiences while honouring his legacy. By focusing on the ethics and openly showcasing the AI aspect, we saw a way to create something truly engaging for both long-time fans and new listeners.”
Mike Parkinson said: “The podcast is really a tribute to my dad. I want audiences to marvel at the technology, the cleverness and cheekiness of the concept, but mostly I want them to remember just how good he was at interviewing and enjoy the nostalgia and happy memories.”
