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OFFICIALSource: variety.com

‘Owning Manhattan’ Star Ryan Serhant Links With AI Startup HeyGen to Generate Social Media Avatar for Content (EXCLUSIVE)

Published October 8, 2026 · US

‘Owning Manhattan’ Star Ryan Serhant Links With AI Startup HeyGen to Generate Social Media Avatar for Content (EXCLUSIVE)

SOURCE: VARIETY.COM

Ryan Serhant, recognized for his role in Netflix’s "Owning Manhattan" and his expansive real estate ventures, is pioneering a new approach to content creation by integrating artificial intelligence into his social media strategy. Overseeing a brokerage that operates across 19 U.S. regions and managing a sizable content production studio with around 100 staff, Serhant has long faced the challenge of maintaining a prolific online presence while running his business.

His company currently generates an impressive volume of approximately 2,200 social media posts monthly, engaging millions of followers across platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Despite this, the demands of his real estate empire limit the time he can personally dedicate to content generation, prompting him to explore innovative solutions.

In response, Serhant has formed an exclusive partnership with HeyGen, an AI technology firm specializing in personalized avatars. This collaboration has led to the development of a digital avatar modeled on Serhant's likeness, designed to deliver educational real estate insights and engage audiences under the handle @HeySerhant on Instagram, TikTok, and X.

The avatar initiative seeks to supplement Serhant’s existing brand presence by translating his extensive industry knowledge into accessible content without requiring his constant physical presence on camera. This strategy reflects a broader trend among public figures leveraging AI technology to extend their digital footprints efficiently while potentially unlocking new revenue opportunities.

HeyGen’s approach allows Serhant to maintain daily communication with his audience, providing consistent insights and updates through AI-generated videos. The content produced through this channel will focus on sharing professional lessons and real estate expertise, complementing rather than replacing his more personal and interactive content, such as behind-the-scenes glimpses and family moments.

Serhant’s content team, including a significant contingent based in New York, is involved in overseeing the avatar’s output to ensure authenticity and alignment with his voice and brand values. The project is slated to produce at least one video daily for a minimum of twelve months, with expectations of ongoing extension depending on its success.

This adoption of an AI avatar illustrates a solution to a common challenge faced by personal brands: scaling one’s presence without the constraints of time and physical availability. Serhant’s embrace of AI-driven content reflects an evolving media landscape where technology enhances the ability to connect with large audiences continuously.

While the avatar will be the exclusive feature in these daily posts, Serhant anticipates interactive segments where his real persona will engage with the AI version, blending traditional and technological content forms. This hybrid approach aims to preserve the personal connection fans expect while maximizing content reach and efficiency.

The collaboration between Serhant and HeyGen emerged organically as Serhant observed the innovative content being produced by the startup. It underscores the increasing role AI is playing in creative industries, particularly for entrepreneurs and celebrities balancing multifaceted careers.

Notably, Serhant’s move joins a wave of high-profile individuals licensing their likenesses for AI-generated media, signaling a shift in how personal branding and digital content production will evolve in the coming years. This development could redefine audience engagement by making expert insights and personalities accessible in new, scalable ways.

Details about specific AI content formats or potential monetization strategies remain limited, but the initiative clearly marks an important step in integrating artificial intelligence into the routines of influential content creators with demanding schedules.

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This article was synthesized and rewritten by MusicTop Editorial from reporting published by variety.com. Read the publisher's report for the complete source context.

Read original source: variety.com