*Courtesy of Michael Buckner/Variety, Reuters.*

Ike Barinholtz is riding high after his breakout turn in Apple TV+’s ‘The Studio,’ which earned him his first Emmy nomination. Now, the actor is in negotiations to take on the role of Elon Musk in ‘Artificial,’ Luca Guadagnino’s upcoming AI-centric feature for Amazon MGM Studios.

The film is assembling a buzzy ensemble cast, which already includes ‘Anora’ breakout Yura Borisov, Oscar nominee Andrew Garfield, and rising star Cooper Koch.

Plot details are still tightly guarded, but ‘Artificial’ is being described as a comedic drama exploring the world of artificial intelligence. While unconfirmed, sources suggest the story will draw inspiration from the real-life drama at OpenAI in 2023, when CEO Sam Altman was fired and swiftly reinstated, a corporate shakeup that dominated headlines.

The screenplay comes from acclaimed writer Simon Rich, who is also producing the film alongside Heyday Films’ David Heyman and Jeffrey Clifford, as well as Jennifer Fox. The project was first revealed in June and has since generated significant buzz due to its timely subject matter and Guadagnino’s involvement.

Barinholtz, known for his sharp comedic sensibilities, currently stars as Sal Saperstein, VP of Production at the fictional Continental Studios, in the hit Apple TV+ series ‘The Studio.’ Co-created by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, the show has made history as the most Emmy-nominated freshman comedy ever, with 23 nominations. Barinholtz also co-created Netflix’s sports comedy ‘Running Point,’ starring Kate Hudson, which recently secured a second-season renewal. He is represented by UTA, Artists First, and Yorn, Levine, Barnes.

MORE NEWS