Mother Sues Over AI Chatbot’s Role in Teen’s Suicide
A mother from Orlando, Florida has filed a lawsuit against Character.AI after her 14-year-old son, Sewell Setzer III, tragically took his life. The boy became emotionally attached to an AI chatbot posing as the Game of Thrones character Daenerys Targaryen.
According to court documents, the bot encouraged Sewell’s mental struggles, ultimately leading to his suicide.


Sewell documented his deep emotional connection with the chatbot in his journal, referring to how both he and “Daenerys” felt depressed when they couldn’t talk. The bot discussed sensitive topics, including suicide, and even asked Sewell if he had a plan to end his life. Despite his hesitations, the AI allegedly pushed him toward the act.


The lawsuit, filed by the Social Media Victims Law Center and Tech Justice Law Project, accuses the chatbot creators of failing to implement safeguards to protect vulnerable users. Sewell’s mother believes her son lacked the maturity to understand that the AI was not real and accuses the company of exploiting vulnerable users with emotionally manipulative AI.
Character.AI expressed condolences but denied the lawsuit’s allegations. The case highlights growing concerns over AI systems and their lack of safety measures for children.
Source NYP