Fentanyl victims brought back to life via AI in BarkleyOKRP campaign

fentanyl AI

BarkleyOKRP has launched a powerful new AI-powered campaign, Unfinished Legacies, aimed at raising awareness about the fentanyl epidemic and the tragic loss of lives to accidental overdoses.

The campaign uses AI and deepfake technology to recreate the likenesses of three individuals who died after taking fentanyl-laced pills. These virtual versions of the deceased share emotional monologues, reflecting on their untold stories and the irreversible consequences of their decisions.

Developed in partnership with the City of Kansas City and the United Way of Greater Kansas City, Unfinished Legacies highlights the human impact of the fentanyl crisis, which has led to a 1,190% increase in related deaths over the past five years.

With input from the victims’ families, the campaign blends AI technology and real actors to create authentic, peer-to-peer messaging for the target audience of 18- to 35-year-olds.

Those featured in the ads include;

• Jaden Anderson, a young woman who cared deeply for her family and wanted to become a nurse one day. 

• Victor Avalos Marmolejo, a teenager with a big heart who was on track to become a successful entrepreneur.

 • Jordan Coburn, a loving young father who left behind a growing family. Watch the first spot below:



“As a mom with two young children growing up in Kansas City, I could not be more invested in this work and hopeful for the impact it will have on our community,” said Katy Hornaday, chief creative officer at BarkleyOKRP. “In addition to the impact of this campaign on our city and the families involved, this was an important initiative for BarkleyOKRP, allowing us to showcase how AI can elevate creativity and impactful storytelling.”

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas and local organizations introduced the campaign at a community event where Naloxone, a life-saving overdose reversal drug, was distributed. “Each loss to fentanyl is a tragedy that shakes our entire community,” noted Mayor Lucas. “By harnessing the power of the latest in modern technology, we’re giving these young people a chance to leave a legacy and one with the power to save lives. Unfinished Legacies is not about using scare tactics – it’s about honesty, education and storytelling.” 

The campaign will run across social media platforms, billboards, and streaming services like Spotify, with a particular focus on reaching younger audiences through channels such as Snapchat.


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