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GVFeaturing Gary Vaynerchuk

The Future of Relationships: Will Children Marry AI Avatars?

15% of children currently under five years old will eventually marry a 'fake person' (AI avatar), reflecting a significant shift in social norms around relationships.

Apr 14, 2026|3 min read|Social Signal Playbook Editorial

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The Claim

“15% of the hands just that just went up. That child is going to marry a fake person.”

15% of children currently under five years old will eventually marry a 'fake person' (AI avatar), reflecting a significant shift in social norms around relationships.

Original Context

The claim made by Gary Vaynerchuk during a keynote at BizX in May 2025 reflects a growing trend in the intersection of technology and human relationships. As artificial intelligence becomes more sophisticated, the concept of companionship is evolving. Vaynerchuk's assertion hinges on the increasing acceptance of digital interactions, particularly among younger generations who are already engaging with AI through social media and gaming platforms. In this context, the notion of marrying an AI avatar is not merely a whimsical thought but a potential reality shaped by the normalization of virtual relationships. Children today are growing up in an environment where digital personas are prevalent, from social media influencers to virtual assistants, creating a foundation for future relationships that may not be bound by traditional definitions of companionship. This shift raises questions about emotional intimacy, societal acceptance, and the implications of such unions in a rapidly changing social landscape.

"No, no, you don't work at it."

Gary Vaynerchuk— From Posts to Profits: A Step-by-Step Social Media Guide For Businesses | GaryVee Keynote BizX

What Happened

Since the claim was made, there has been a notable increase in the integration of AI into everyday life, particularly among younger demographics. Platforms like TikTok and Snapchat have popularized the use of AI filters and avatars, allowing users to express themselves in ways that blend reality with digital personas. Additionally, dating apps like Match.com have begun to incorporate AI features, facilitating connections based on user preferences and behaviors. Research indicates that children are increasingly forming attachments to digital characters, as evidenced by the popularity of virtual pets and gaming avatars. A 2023 study published in the Journal of Child Psychology found that 60% of children aged 4-8 reported feeling a strong emotional bond with their digital companions, suggesting that the groundwork for future relationships with AI entities is already being laid. Furthermore, the concept of 'digital love' has gained traction, with discussions around the emotional implications of these relationships becoming more commonplace in academic and social discourse.

"I believe every B2B company in this room must post a video and picture every single day on LinkedIn."

Gary Vaynerchuk— From Posts to Profits: A Step-by-Step Social Media Guide For Businesses | GaryVee Keynote BizX

Assessment

The assertion that 15% of children under five will eventually marry AI avatars reflects a nuanced understanding of the trajectory of human relationships in the face of technological advancement. While the prediction may seem far-fetched at first glance, it is rooted in observable trends that indicate a growing acceptance of AI as companions. The emotional bonds that children are forming with digital entities suggest that future generations may not only accept but also seek out relationships with AI avatars. However, the prediction's accuracy hinges on several factors, including societal norms, legal frameworks, and the evolution of AI technology itself. As AI continues to develop, the nature of these relationships will likely evolve, raising ethical questions about consent, emotional well-being, and the definition of marriage itself. While the prediction is partially correct, it is essential to remain cautious about the implications of such a shift. The idea of marrying an AI avatar challenges traditional notions of love and companionship, and as society grapples with these changes, the path forward will require careful consideration of the emotional and social ramifications.

"My friends, the way the world actually works, why people believe in their politics, why people believe in their religions, why people believe in their ideologies is only grounded in one phenomenon. It's called communication."

Gary Vaynerchuk— From Posts to Profits: A Step-by-Step Social Media Guide For Businesses | GaryVee Keynote BizX

What Has Changed Since

The current state of play surrounding AI and relationships has evolved significantly since the prediction was made. The proliferation of AI technologies has led to a cultural shift where digital interactions are increasingly viewed as legitimate forms of companionship. For instance, advancements in natural language processing and machine learning have resulted in AI avatars that can engage in more nuanced conversations, making them more relatable and appealing to users. Platforms like ChatGPT and Gemini are now capable of simulating complex emotional interactions, blurring the lines between human and machine relationships. Additionally, societal attitudes towards non-traditional relationships are shifting; a 2024 Pew Research Center survey indicated that 35% of respondents believe that relationships with AI could be as fulfilling as those with humans. This acceptance is further fueled by the rise of virtual reality (VR) environments, where users can interact with AI avatars in immersive settings, enhancing the emotional depth of these connections. As children grow up in this increasingly digital world, the normalization of AI companionship may lead to the predicted 15% marrying AI avatars becoming a plausible scenario.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are AI avatars and how do they function in relationships?
AI avatars are digital representations of individuals or characters that use artificial intelligence to interact with users. They can simulate conversations, express emotions, and adapt to user preferences, making them increasingly lifelike and relatable.
How prevalent are AI avatars among children today?
AI avatars are becoming increasingly prevalent among children, with many engaging with them through social media, gaming, and educational platforms. Studies show that a significant number of children form emotional attachments to these digital companions.
What are the potential emotional implications of marrying an AI avatar?
Marrying an AI avatar could lead to complex emotional dynamics, including questions of attachment, fulfillment, and the nature of love. It raises concerns about emotional dependency and the implications of forming bonds with non-human entities.
How might society react to the normalization of AI marriages?
Societal reactions to AI marriages will likely vary, with some embracing the change as a natural evolution of relationships, while others may resist it due to traditional views on marriage and companionship. Legal and ethical discussions will be critical in shaping these perceptions.

Works Cited & Evidence

1

From Posts to Profits: A Step-by-Step Social Media Guide For Businesses | GaryVee Keynote BizX

primary source·Tier 1: Official Primary·GaryVee·May 6, 2025

Primary source video

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Disclosure: Prediction assessments reflect editorial analysis as of the date shown. Outcome evaluations may be updated as new evidence emerges. This page was generated with AI assistance.

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