Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of celebrities becoming memes and how they respond to this trend, particularly focusing on Will Smith's recent controversy involving AI-generated audience visuals during a concert promotion, and how he humorously managed the backlash [1][3][20]. Group 1: Will Smith's AI Controversy - Will Smith faced criticism for using AI-generated images of fans in a concert promo, leading to accusations of laziness and inauthenticity [3][6]. - In response to the backlash, Smith utilized humor by posting a video with AI-generated cat heads on audience members, effectively turning the narrative around [3][6][24]. - Smith's previous experience with AI memes, such as the "Will Smith eating pasta" video, showcases his familiarity with the meme culture and his ability to leverage it for public relations [1][4][20]. Group 2: Celebrity Meme Culture - The article highlights that many celebrities, like Nicolas Cage and Keanu Reeves, have also become subjects of internet memes, with varying degrees of acceptance and humor in their responses [11][13][16]. - Cage expressed regret over becoming a meme, feeling it misrepresents his acting career, while Reeves actively includes clauses in contracts to prevent digital alterations of his performances [11][16]. - The article notes that some celebrities, like Elon Musk, embrace their meme status, using it as a strategy for public engagement and self-promotion [19][24]. Group 3: The Logic Behind AI Memes - The use of celebrity images in memes lowers the recognition barrier for audiences, enhancing the effectiveness of the content [20][22]. - Different celebrities adopt various strategies in response to their meme status, with some embracing it to create buzz and maintain relevance in the digital age [22][26]. - The phenomenon of becoming a meme can serve as a new self-marketing tool for celebrities, ensuring they remain in the public eye and relevant in a fast-paced information environment [26].