NBC to use AI commentary for Paris Olympics with Al Michaels on the call as fans question ‘last I checked he was alive’
NBC will debut artificial intelligence (AI) commentary for the 2024 Paris Olympics - and a legendary broadcaster's voice will be used.
Fans, however, have taken issue with NBC using AI to recreate iconic sportscaster Al Michaels' voice for the summer games.
NBC announced on Wednesday that Michaels would be involved in the Paris Olympics coverage on Peacock - the network's streaming service.
The network will use AI to have the 79-year-old's voice narrate highlights of different events throughout the games.
NBC's press release wrote that Michaels' recaps "will provide fans with their own customized playlist featuring highlights of the events most relevant to them from the previous day."
The release added that the AI voice of Michaels is based on his previous appearances on NBC and "matches his signature expertise and elocution."
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Fans were opposed to NBC's decision to use a clone of Michaels' voice simply because the legend is still alive.
"Why the need to recreate his voice when his real voice is available?" one asked.
"Last I checked Al Michaels is alive and well. Why use A.I.?" another commented.
"Why can't they just use Al Michaels," a third questioned.
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Michaels has a long history as a broadcaster.
One of his most memorable moments came from the 1980 Olympics when he delivered the "Do you believe in miracles" call in the Miracle on Ice game.
Michaels has called several other Olympics, numerous World Series and Super Bowls.
In 2022, he left his full-time job with NBC to join Amazon Prime Video and become the play-by-play commentator for the streaming service's first Thursday Night Football broadcast.
Still, Michaels has maintained a role with NBC and makes infrequent appearances on the network despite still working at Amazon.
It was reported by Variety that NBC asked for Michaels' approval before deciding to use a clone of his voice.
"When I was approached about this, I was skeptical but obviously curious,” said Al Michaels, per the release.
"Then I saw a demonstration detailing what they had in mind. I said, 'I’m in.'"
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The Paris Olympics will begin on July 26 and end on August 11.
NBC will have over 150 broadcasters to cover the event.