Scarlett Johansson Takes a Stand Against Voice Imitation by OpenAI
Hollywood and AI Clash Over Voice Rights

In a bold move resonating across Hollywood, Scarlett Johansson has openly criticized OpenAI for employing a voice eerily reminiscent of hers in its latest AI model, GPT-4o. The controversy surfaced when SAG-AFTRA, the guild representing a myriad of Hollywood talents, publicly supported Johansson's grievances. This incident has sparked a heated debate over the ethical use of digital replicas of human likenesses and voices.


Guild Backing and Federal Moves


A SAG-AFTRA spokesperson commended Johansson's courage in addressing this pressing issue, emphasizing the guild's endorsement of her quest for clarity and transparency concerning the voice utilized in the Chat GPT-4o device named 'Sky'. "We thank Ms. Johansson for speaking out on this issue of crucial importance to all SAG-AFTRA members," said the spokesperson, highlighting the ongoing push for federal legislation to shield personal likenesses and voices from unauthorized digital imitation.
Johansson's Reaction and Legal Action

Johansson, recognized for her role as an AI in the film "Her," expressed her shock and anger upon discovering the similarity of the GPT-4o's voice to her own, a likeness so close that even close associates and media outlets were fooled. After declining an initial offer from OpenAI CEO Sam Altman to voice the system, Johansson found herself entangled in a scenario where the voice was publicized before any agreement was reached. This led her to seek legal advice, resulting in formal communications to OpenAI demanding an explanation and subsequent agreement to remove the 'Sky' voice.


OpenAI's Response and Ongoing Concerns

In response, Altman clarified that the voice of 'Sky' was chosen before reaching out to Johansson and was never meant to mimic hers. He acknowledged the oversight in communication, stating, "We are sorry to Ms. Johansson that we didn't communicate better." This situation underscores the broader industry anxieties around voice imitation technologies, which pose potential risks from political misinformation to threats to the livelihoods of creative professionals.


Industry Strikes and Legislative Advocacy

Last summer, SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America staged strikes, partly fueled by concerns over AI technologies that could replicate a performer's essence. The strike emphasized the potential existential threats AI poses to creative careers, as articulated by SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher.


Broader Implications and Legislative Responses

The issue has also caught the attention of policymakers. Senator Brian Schatz expressed his alarm on social media about the ease with which AI companies might exploit personal voices without consent or compensation, highlighting a significant privacy and rights issue that transcends Hollywood.

As the debate unfolds, the entertainment industry and legislators are keenly aware of the need for robust and transparent safeguards to protect individuals from unauthorized use of their digital identities, ensuring that the rise of AI technologies does not come at the expense of human rights and creative freedom.

Source: NBC news