Scarlett Johansson has recently taken a stand against OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, accusing the tech giant of using an imitation of her voice without her consent. In a candid interview with The New York Times, the award-winning actress expressed her shock and anger at the alleged use of her voice in OpenAI’s AI virtual assistant. Johansson went as far as to suggest that Altman would make a convincing Marvel villain, complete with a robotic arm. The public feud between Johansson and Altman began when OpenAI introduced a voice option that bore a striking resemblance to Johansson’s in the movie “Her.” Although OpenAI denied that the voice was a direct imitation of Johansson’s, the actress felt betrayed and violated by the incident.
The Ethical Dilemma of AI-Generated Deepfakes
Johansson’s concerns go beyond the personal violation she experienced at the hands of OpenAI. In the interview with Maureen Dowd, she delves into the broader implications of AI-generated deepfakes, describing them as a “dark wormhole you can never climb your way out of.” Johansson emphasizes the potential dangers of deepfake technology, especially in the context of personal privacy and reputation. She warns that once a deepfake is created and circulated, it can have far-reaching consequences that are almost impossible to control. Johansson’s passionate stance on this issue highlights the ethical dilemmas posed by rapidly advancing technology and the need for robust regulations to protect individuals from such abuses.
Apart from her altercation with OpenAI, Scarlett Johansson also found herself embroiled in a legal battle with Disney over the release of her Marvel film “Black Widow.” The dispute arose when Disney decided to debut the movie simultaneously in theaters and on its streaming platform, Disney+ Premier Access, contrary to the terms of Johansson’s contract. The actress alleged that this hybrid release strategy would deprive her of substantial backend compensation, leading to a heated legal showdown between her and the entertainment giant. Disney retaliated by accusing Johansson of being insensitive to the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and disclosing her $20 million salary, further escalating the public feud.
Despite the tumultuous events surrounding her dealings with OpenAI and Disney, Scarlett Johansson remains resolute in her convictions. While she continues to be critical of technology’s unchecked advancements and the lack of accountability in the entertainment industry, she also demonstrates resilience and determination in navigating these challenges. By speaking out against injustices and advocating for transparency and fairness, Johansson sets an example for others in the industry to follow. As she takes on new projects, such as the rom-com “Fly Me to the Moon,” Johansson’s formidable presence in Hollywood only solidifies, showcasing her as a force to be reckoned with both on and off the screen.
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