Voice Similarity Controversy
Hollywood star Scarlett Johansson expressed shock and anger after OpenAI launched a chatbot with a voice she claims is “uncannily similar” to her own. The actress had previously declined an offer from the company to voice the chatbot, which reads text aloud to users.
The new chatbot model, named Sky, debuted last week, quickly drawing comparisons to Johansson’s voice in the 2013 film “Her”. OpenAI announced it would remove the voice, asserting it was not intended to imitate Johansson.
Accusations Against OpenAI
Johansson accused OpenAI and its founder, Sam Altman, of deliberately copying her voice. In a statement to the BBC, she expressed disbelief and frustration, noting that Altman had referenced “Her” in a tweet.
Johansson revealed she was approached by Altman in September to voice the chatbot. Altman believed her voice could bridge the gap between tech companies and creatives, helping consumers feel comfortable with AI advancements. Despite this, Johansson declined for personal reasons.
Legal Actions and Demands
Days before Sky’s release, Altman contacted Johansson’s agent, urging her to reconsider. Johansson, feeling compelled to hire lawyers, sent two legal letters to OpenAI to determine how the voice was created. She emphasized the importance of protecting one’s likeness and identity in an era of deepfakes.
OpenAI’s Response
Altman denied intentions to imitate Johansson’s voice, stating the voice actor for Sky was cast before reaching out to Johansson. OpenAI has paused using Sky’s voice out of respect for Johansson and is working to address concerns about how the voice was chosen.
Ongoing Legal Issues for OpenAI
OpenAI faces several impending lawsuits, including potential legal action from The New York Times over allegations of using articles to train its AI, and claims from authors George R.R. Martin and John Grisham regarding copyright infringement.
The controversy over the Sky chatbot’s voice highlights ongoing tensions between AI development and the protection of personal likeness and intellectual property.
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Written By Doris Chinwe Omemgbeoji