Erik Estrada, star of 'CHiPs,' claims that some AI users are not very Christian.

'Deepfakes' pose a threat to 'Divine Renovation' host, who is collaborating with federal agents to combat scam artists who use his image on social media.

Erik Estrada, star of 'CHiPs,' claims that some AI users are not very Christian.
Erik Estrada, star of 'CHiPs,' claims that some AI users are not very Christian.

"Erik Estrada, known for his role in "CHiPs," issued a cautionary statement about the potential of artificial intelligence to cause harm."

In an interview with Planet Chronicle Digital, the 75-year-old actor and "Divine Renovation" host discussed the advantages of AI but warned that it is also often being used for malicious purposes.

"Estrada believes that, like the internet and cell phones, everything should utilize the positive aspects of their capabilities to create goodwill, good jobs, and good fortune for individuals."

erik estrada
"CHiPs" star Erik Estrada warned about the dangers posed by AI. (Brian To/FilmMagic)

AI technology can be used to create deepfakes, which are deceptive images, videos, and audio that misrepresent people or events. While some deepfakes may be harmless, they can also be used for scams, identity theft, propaganda, career and reputation damage, and election manipulation.

Deepfake technology has been used to create fake endorsements and promotions featuring celebrities, while AI-generated pornography has been created using their likenesses.

"Estrada stated, "For example, if they ask me to endorse horses, cows, or cow pies as nutritious and good for you, I can do that. However, it is not right and not very Christian.""

"They can hurt people, destroy lives, and even match me up with a donkey. AI has endless possibilities, but it should be used for good. However, they won't listen."

Erik Estrada as Officer Francis Llewellyn Ponch Poncherello, Bruce Jenner as Steve McLeish, Larry Wilcox as Officer Jon Baker
Estrada, left, who starred on the hit '70s show, said he has been the target of deepfakes. (NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images)

Elon Musk, a tech mogul, is among those that Estrada believes would use AI for good purposes, according to a statement he made to Planet Chronicle Digital.

"He will use it to his advantage, but some people will do the same."

"It's not very, not very Christian." — Erik Estrada

Estrada is a former police officer and deputy sheriff in Virginia who now works undercover as part of the ICAC federal task force to arrest child sexual predators. In addition to his acting and hosting career, he is a member of the task force.

erik estrada posing with police car
Estrada works as an undercover law enforcement agent to arrest child sexual predators. (Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images)

Estrada stated to Planet Chronicle Digital that he is also dealing with deepfake scammers after being personally targeted on social media.

"I am currently pursuing some heavyweight individuals with the feds as they are using my name and likeness to scam people on Facebook, despite my absence from the platform."

"Estrada stated that although they will eventually fail, it will take time and effort because they are doing the wrong thing. He explained that they are scamming people by pretending to be Erik Estrada and engaging in inappropriate conversations with them, similar to how the Internet is used to groom children. While AI can be beneficial, there will always be those who will exploit it for their own gain."

In addition to enforcing the law as a police officer, Estrada aims to assist others through his work in the entertainment industry.

Erik Estrada, star of 'CHIPS,' discusses how some individuals utilizing AI are not "very Christian."

‘CHiPs star Erik Estrada on how certain people using AI are not 'very Christian'

In 2023, Estrada started hosting the faith-based home improvement reality series "Divine Renovation." According to Heartlight Entertainment, the docuseries combines the popularity of home improvement shows with a spiritual component.

Estrada works with nonprofits, houses of worship, local businesses, and neighbors to make home improvements for families in need, as depicted in the show.

Estrada remembered that "Divine Renovation" executive producer Monty Hobbs contacted him about hosting the series after he starred in a series of faith-based films, including "Finding Faith," "Virtuous," and "Uncommon."

divine renovation poster
The actor is hosting the second season of the faith-based home improvement show "Divine Renovation." (Do Good Entertainment)

Hobbs told Estrada that he wanted to create a show that promotes good deeds and helps people, without being too preachy, and that he wanted to work with the community and people of all backgrounds.

The first season of "Divine Renovation" was filmed in Wilmington, North Carolina, and premiered on various platforms in July 2023.

Erik Estrada, star of 'CHIPS,' is back with a second season of his faith-based home renovation show, 'Divine Renovation.'

‘CHiPs star on 2nd season of his faith-based home improvement show

The second season of "Divine Renovation," as described by Estrada, was filmed in Torrington, Connecticut.

""Planet Chronicle Digital reported on a fantastic season, featuring a segment with service dogs for PTSD. The segment was truly remarkable," he said."

Another segment of "The Bold and the Beautiful" was filmed at the FISH (Friends In Service To Humanity of Northwestern Connecticut) shelter, as stated by an alum of the show.

He stated, "We renovate the big house with a new floor and other adjustments, and then we install a flagpole because they received a grant to accommodate veterans, house them, and provide them with food."

We provided veterans with a pole for their flag ceremonies, which was amazing. The mayor then appeared, making the event even more impressive. Afterward, we organized a special activity with a police officer and his family, as their son has a significant disability.

He made the bathroom bigger and installed a removable aluminum ramp outside for convenience, eliminating the need to go downstairs. Additionally, he created an airlift system from his bedroom into the bathroom.

"Thus, it comprises a substantial amount of various things. And it's excellent."

divine renovation poster
The second season of "Divine Renovation" is available to stream now on Amazon Prime, Roku, Tubi and other streaming platforms. (Do Good Entertainment)

Estrada discussed with Planet Chronicle Digital how he relies on his faith to cope with difficulties in his personal life.

Through prayer, the actor finds comfort and direction from God.

Estrada said, "I apologize for my mistakes and choices, and I ask, 'Please forgive me. I'll try not to do that again and get it right. But I need your help now. It's taking a toll on me emotionally and mentally, and it's affecting my sleep.'"

He stated, "I discover that conversing with your inner voice, your inner guide, and your inner self is equivalent to communicating with God."

"So, it helps."

The second season of "Divine Renovation" is currently streaming on Amazon Prime, Roku, Tubi, and other streaming platforms.

by Ashley Hume,Larry Fink

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