Scarlett Johansson has spoken out against OpenAI CEO Sam Altman for using a voice similar to hers in the ChatGPT AI voice dubbed “Sky” despite her declining the offer. Altman approached Johansson last September and again two days before the announcement of ChatGPT-4o on May 13. Johansson declined the offer for personal reasons, but later found out that the voice of the AI system sounded eerily similar to her own.
After hearing the released demo of the AI system, Johansson expressed shock and anger at the resemblance between the voice of “Sky” and her own. She hired legal counsel and wrote two letters to Altman and OpenAI, asking for transparency regarding the process of creating the voice. Johansson emphasized the importance of protecting individual rights, especially in the age of deepfakes and the misuse of personal likeness.
OpenAI responded to Johansson’s claims by stating that the voice of “Sky” is not an imitation of Scarlett Johansson, but rather a different professional actress using her own natural speaking voice. The company did not disclose the names of the voice talents involved in the project due to privacy concerns. OpenAI defended its decision in choosing the voice for the AI system and stated that there was no intentional imitation of Johansson’s voice.
Johansson’s experience with OpenAI has sparked debate about the ethics of using celebrity voices for AI systems without their consent. The incident raises questions about the boundaries between technology, creativity, and individual rights. As AI systems become more sophisticated, the issue of consent and privacy in using human voices for artificial intelligence needs to be addressed.
Scarlett Johansson’s public statement against OpenAI CEO Sam Altman sheds light on the controversy surrounding the use of her voice in the ChatGPT AI system. The case highlights the importance of transparency, consent, and privacy when it comes to the representation of individuals in emerging technologies. It serves as a reminder that ethical considerations should guide the development and implementation of AI systems to ensure respect for individual rights and protection of personal identity.
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