The labor union SAG-AFTRA, which represents Hollywood actors, praised Scarlett Johansson for speaking out against OpenAI using a voice that sounded similar to hers in their GPT-40 model. The guild supports Johansson in seeking clarity and transparency regarding the use of her voice in developing the chat appliance “Sky.” SAG-AFTRA is advocating for federal legislation to protect the voices and likenesses of all individuals from unauthorized digital replication.
Johansson, known for voicing an AI chatbot in the movie “Her,” expressed shock and anger at OpenAI CEO Sam Altman for pursuing a voice that closely resembled hers without her consent. Altman allegedly contacted Johansson to voice the GPT-40 system but she declined the offer. Johansson later hired legal counsel to address the situation, resulting in OpenAI agreeing to take down the ‘Sky’ voice. Altman denied that the voice was intended to mimic Johansson’s and stated that it was selected prior to reaching out to her.
SAG-AFTRA welcomed OpenAI’s decision to pause the use of ‘Sky’ and expressed a desire to work with the company and other industry stakeholders to establish protections for all individuals in the industry. The union has been particularly concerned about the impact of generative AI on entertainment, including the potential to replace performers’ likeness or voice. Last summer, SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America went on strike in part due to concerns about the future of AI in the entertainment industry.
The use of voice imitation technologies has raised fears about issues such as political disinformation and threats to creative professionals’ livelihoods. Prominent voices, including Sen. Brian Schatz, have criticized OpenAI for using a voice without permission or compensation, emphasizing the importance of protecting individuals’ rights to their image and voice. AI companies must take responsibility for the ethical use of technology and respect the rights of performers and other individuals in the industry.
Overall, SAG-AFTRA and other industry stakeholders are pushing for greater transparency and protections in the use of AI technologies in entertainment. The union supports Johansson’s efforts to hold OpenAI accountable for using a voice that closely resembled hers without her consent. The incident highlights the need for clear regulations and ethical considerations in the development and use of AI technology in the entertainment industry to ensure that performers’ rights and voices are safeguarded.
