Devil May Cry Anime Producer Confirms Kevin Conroy Was Recorded Before He Passed Away: ‘No AI Used’

This week, a new trailer for Netflix's Devil May Cry anime has unveiled that the legendary late voice actor Kevin Conroy will posthumously star in the video game adaptation. This revelation sparked curiosity among fans about whether AI technology was used to recreate Conroy's iconic voice. However, the anime's producer, Adi Shankar, has swiftly put those rumors to rest.

In a tweet, Shankar clarified that Conroy was recorded prior to his passing in November 2022, emphasizing, "no AI used." He further praised Conroy's contribution, stating, "Mr. Conroy gave it amazingly nuanced performance. It was both a pleasure and an honor to work with him."

Conroy, celebrated for voicing Bruce Wayne and Batman in numerous animated films and TV shows, takes on the role of VP Baines in the Devil May Cry anime. His voice can be heard at the beginning of the trailer, introducing this new character to fans.

Johnny Yong Bosch, who voices Dante and played Nero in the video games, shared his sentiments on working with Conroy, saying, "It was an honor to work alongside Kevin Conroy for the upcoming DMC series. A true legend. Batman: The Animated Series redefined cartoons for me. For those wondering, our recording sessions took place a few years ago — animation takes quite some time to complete."

Conroy's posthumous work was previously acclaimed in Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths: Part 3 back in July 2024. Now, fans have another opportunity to appreciate his talent following his passing at the age of 66, two-and-a-half years ago.

The official synopsis from Netflix sets the scene: "Sinister forces are at play to open the portal between the human and demon realms. In the middle of it all is Dante, an orphaned demon-hunter-for-hire, unaware that the fate of both worlds hangs around his neck."

Adi Shankar, serving as the showrunner, is renowned for his work as an executive producer on the 2012 Judge Dredd reboot film Dredd, developing the beloved Castlevania anime, and creating Netflix series such as The Guardians of Justice and Captain Laserhawk: A Blood Dragon. He is also set to executive produce an adaptation of Assassin’s Creed.

Studio Mir, a prominent South Korean studio known for projects like The Legend of Korra and X-Men ‘97, will handle the chief production duties for this series. Devil May Cry is scheduled to premiere on Netflix on April 3, 2025.

In the broader context, generative AI remains a contentious topic within the video game and entertainment industries, both of which have faced significant layoffs. The technology has drawn criticism from fans and creators over ethical and rights issues, as well as its challenges in producing content that resonates with audiences.