How We Turned Shaq into Shaqzilla: An AI Video Campaign That Hit 1 Million+ Views

AI Video

When Shaquille O’Neal’s team approached JZ Creates for AI video content for his DJ residency at Wynn Las Vegas, we knew this would be special. Not just because of the magnitude of the client—but because it represented a perfect intersection of cutting-edge AI creativity and mainstream celebrity culture.

The result? A dynamic DJ Diesel residency announcement video that Shaq posted on Instagram, generating over 1 million views and sparking massive engagement across social media.

This case study breaks down exactly how we made it happen—from the AI tools we used to the strategic decisions that made this campaign go viral.

The Project: Shaq X Wynn

  • Client: Shaquille O’Neal (DJ Diesel)
  • Venue: Wynn Las Vegas – Encore Beach Club
  • Deliverable: Dynamic promotional video announcing DJ Diesel’s residency
  • Objective: Create buzz and excitement around Shaq’s DJ residency at one of Vegas’s most iconic venues

The Challenge

Traditional video production for a celebrity of Shaq’s caliber typically involves:

  • Massive budgets
  • Weeks of shooting
  • Complex VFX pipelines
  • Multiple rounds of revisions

We needed to deliver something visually stunning and engaging—but fast. AI was the an

Our AI Tool Stack: The Technology Behind the Magic

We didn’t just use “AI”—we strategically combined multiple AI platforms to create a cohesive, high-impact video:

1. Nano Banana

Our go-to for rapid AI video generation. Perfect for creating dynamic, attention-grabbing visuals that match the energy of a DJ residency announcement.

2. Qwen Image Edit

Used for precise image manipulation and refinement. When we needed to adjust specific elements or enhance visual consistency, Qwen delivered.

3. Google VEO 3.1

For high-quality motion synthesis and video enhancement. VEO helped us smooth out transitions and add that cinematic polish that separates amateur AI content from professional-grade production.

4. Kling AI

Leveraged for character-specific visual effects and scene generation. Perfect for capturing Shaq’s iconic presence in AI-generated sequences.

SFH Cover Image

The Process: AI-Driven Content Creation

Phase 1: Concept & Strategy

  • Goal: Create a video that screams “DJ Diesel at Encore Beach Club”
  • Approach: Combine Shaq’s larger-than-life persona with the vibrant energy of Vegas nightlife
  • Key Insight: AI video works best when it amplifies authenticity, not replaces it

Phase 2: Rapid AI Generation

Unlike traditional production where storyboards turn into weeks of filming, our AI workflow allowed us to:

  • Generate multiple visual concepts in hours, not days
  • Iterate in real-time based on creative direction
  • Test different visual styles without reshooting

Phase 3: Refinement & Polish

This is where the magic happens. Using tools like VEO 3.1 and Kling AI, we:

  • Enhanced visual coherence across all scenes
  • Added dynamic motion that matches DJ culture
  • Fine-tuned color grading for maximum impact

Phase 4: Delivery

From concept to final video: significantly faster than traditional VFX-heavy production.

ShaqWynn Wallpaper 16x9 02C

The Results: 1 Million+ Views and Counting

When Shaq posted the video on Instagram, the response was immediate:

  • 1 Million+ Views on Instagram
  • High Engagement Rate – comments flooded in praising the creativity
  • Viral Potential – content was shared and discussed across multiple platforms
  • Brand Awareness – positioned Shaq as a forward-thinking celebrity embracing AI

Why It Worked

  1. Authenticity – Shaq’s genuine excitement about diving into AI content creation came through
  2. Visual Impact – The AI-generated content was eye-catching and shareable
  3. Relevance – It positioned Shaq at the intersection of entertainment and technology
  4. Timing – Released during peak engagement windows for DJ culture and nightlife audiences

AI Video vs. Traditional Production: The Numbers

MetricTraditional ProductionAI-Enhanced Production
Production Timeline1-2 months1-2 weeks
Budget$50,000 – $100,000+$10,000 – $25,000
Revision RoundsMultiple reshootsReal-time iterations
VFX ComplexityStudio-level teamsAI-powered tools
FlexibilityLow (locked once shot)High (adjustable anytime)

What Made This Project Special

Having a celebrity of Shaquille O’Neal’s stature dive into AI content creation was incredible for our team. It wasn’t just a job—it was validation that AI-powered creativity is ready for prime-time, mainstream entertainment.

Key Takeaways

  1. AI Doesn’t Replace Creativity—It Amplifies It
    Our team’s creative vision combined with AI tools produced something neither could achieve alone.
  2. Speed Without Sacrifice
    We didn’t cut corners on quality. We used AI to work smarter and faster.
  3. Celebrity + AI = Magic
    When influential figures embrace new technology, audiences notice and engage.

The Future of AI in Celebrity Marketing

This campaign is proof that AI video is ready for the big leagues. As more celebrities and brands experiment with AI content creation, we expect to see:

  • More authentic, personality-driven AI content
  • Faster turnaround times for campaigns
  • Lower production barriers for smaller creators
  • New creative possibilities that blur the line between reality and AI

Ready to Create Your Own AI Video Campaign?

Whether you’re a brand, agency, or creator looking to leverage AI for your next campaign, JZ Creates can help.

Our AI Video Services Include:

  • AI Promo Videos – Promotional content that stands out
  • AI Social Video – Scroll-stopping content for Instagram, TikTok, and beyond
  • AI Celebrity Collaborations – Authentic influencer content powered by AI
  • AI Content Creation – Full-service creative strategy and execution
Get a Free AI Video Strategy Session →

FAQ: AI Video Production

How long does it take to create an AI video?

Most AI video projects take 1-2 weeks from concept to delivery, compared to 4-8 weeks for traditional production.

What AI tools do you use?

We use a custom stack including Nano Banana, Google VEO, Kling AI, Qwen, and others tailored to each project’s needs.

Can AI videos look professional?

Absolutely. With the right tools and creative direction, AI-generated content can match or exceed traditional production quality.

Is AI video expensive?

AI video is typically 60-80% more cost-effective than traditional VFX-heavy production while maintaining high visual quality.

Can celebrities use AI for their personal branding?

Yes. In fact, Shaq’s campaign proves that AI content can enhance personal brand authenticity when done thoughtfully.

Related Articles

About JZ Creates

JZ Creates is a Los Angeles-based creative agency specializing in unlimited creative services and AI-powered production. We help brands, studios, and creators figure out what to say, how to say it, and how to produce it consistently.

From AI-generated imagery and video to traditional marketing strategy—we craft creative ecosystems, not just individual assets.

View Our Work →
Contact Us →

About Jay Hernandez

Jay Hernandez is an award-winning Creative Director with 20+ years of driving standout campaigns for top brands. Based in Los Angeles, he blends deep creative expertise with cutting-edge AI tools to help businesses and marketing teams unlock bold, breakthrough ideas that deliver real impact. If you’re ready to elevate your brand and turn big visions into unforgettable campaigns, connect with Jay and make it happen!

Get Our
Creative Director custom GPT

Need help launching a brand? Or new ideas for social media? Sign up and get our custom GPT straight inside your ChatGPT.Â