In a recent controversy regarding Gal Gadot Deepfakes in ‘Shazam 2’ . Gal Gadot’s Wonder Woman in ‘Shazam 2’ Was Not a Deepfake, Director Says She ‘Shot in England’ and ‘I Directed Remotely’
The surprise cameo of Gal Gadot’s Wonder Woman in “Shazam! Fury of the Gods” left many moviegoers perplexed. The character serves as a deus ex machina, appearing towards the film’s end to resurrect Billy Batson/Shazam, as she is the only one with the necessary godly powers.
Rumors circulated due to questionable VFX work, suggesting that Gadot’s face was deepfaked onto another actor’s body. However, director David F. Sandberg refuted these claims, explaining that the cameo, shot remotely in England due to visa issues, was not a deepfake.
Sandberg shared a video on Twitter, featuring Gadot on his computer monitor during the remote directing process, dispelling any doubts about deepfake involvement. The initial confusion stemmed from set photos for “Shazam 2,” which showcased Taylor Cahill, a Wonder Woman body double.
Sandberg clarified that they used Cahill for planning shots, and the final scene featured Gadot entirely without deepfake technology.
Wait, I thought WBD was trying to SAVE money 🥴#WonderWoman #DCStudios https://t.co/TvOi4Xw6sf
— Grace Randolph (@GraceRandolph) March 18, 2023
Sandberg had initially intended to keep Gadot’s cameo a secret, but Warner Bros.’ marketing revealed it in a TV spot before the theatrical release. Sandberg acknowledged the spoilers, advising those who wanted a fresh experience to avoid online platforms or TV ads.
Regarding Gadot’s future as Wonder Woman, “Shazam 2” might mark her final appearance. She and director Patty Jenkins had been working on a third film, but Jenkins departed amid a DC Universe overhaul led by new bosses James Gunn and Peter Safran. It remains uncertain whether Gadot will continue in the role in the revamped DC Universe. “Shazam! Fury of the Gods” is currently showing in theaters nationwide.