Neil deGrasse Tyson Opens Up About Deepfakes, Being a “Buzzkill,” and What Keeps Him Up at Night

A Scientist Unafraid to Tackle Uncomfortable Truths

December 1, 2025: Neil deGrasse Tyson is no stranger to tough conversations, and in a recent discussion, he dove into some of today’s biggest technological and societal concerns. From the rise of deepfakes to the criticism he receives for being a “buzzkill,” Tyson offered a candid look into the challenges of communicating science in a world filled with misinformation and noise.

Deepfakes: A Threat to Truth Itself

Tyson expressed growing concern about deepfake technology, warning that manipulated audio and video are becoming so advanced that the average person may soon struggle to distinguish reality from fabrication.
He emphasized that the danger lies not just in creating false scenarios but in eroding public trust. “When people can no longer rely on what they see and hear, society loses its foundation,” he cautioned, calling for stronger digital literacy and verification tools.

Why He’s Called a “Buzzkill” — And Why He Doesn’t Mind

The astrophysicist also addressed criticism that he often “ruins the fun” by correcting popular myths or pointing out scientific inaccuracies in movies and viral posts. Tyson admitted he’s aware of the reputation but sees it differently.
He said his goal isn’t to ruin enjoyment — it’s to elevate curiosity. He believes that understanding the real science behind big ideas makes the world more exciting, not less. “If sharing facts makes me a buzzkill, then so be it,” he joked.

What Truly Keeps Him Up at Night

While many might assume cosmic threats top Tyson’s worry list, he revealed that the issues haunting him most are closer to home: misinformation, scientific illiteracy, and the speed at which false ideas spread online.
He stressed that technological progress means little if society doesn’t develop the critical thinking skills needed to navigate information responsibly. For Tyson, the fear isn’t that people don’t know — it’s that people don’t want to know.

The Challenge of Being a Public Science Voice

With millions of followers and years of public engagement, Tyson acknowledges that educating the public in 2025 is more complicated than ever. Technology is evolving quickly, attention spans are shrinking, and audiences are increasingly divided.
Still, he remains committed to using humor, storytelling, and clarity to break through the noise and make science accessible.

Looking Ahead With Realism — and Hope

Despite the challenges he outlined, Tyson also shared optimism. He pointed to younger generations who are more tech-savvy, more aware of digital manipulation, and more willing to ask hard questions.
For Tyson, the solution lies not in rejecting new technologies like AI and deepfake tools but in fostering a culture that values truth, curiosity, and lifelong learning.