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In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving, actress Scarlett Johansson has emerged as a vocal advocate for the establishment of clear regulations to protect individuals from the potential misuse of their likeness and voice. During a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Johansson expressed her concerns about AI companies that have exploited her image without consent, emphasizing the urgent need for legislative measures to address these issues.
The need for boundaries in AI technology
Johansson’s advocacy stems from her personal experiences with AI technology. She revealed that she was approached by OpenAI to lend her voice to a chatbot, only to discover that the resulting AI feature, named “Sky,” bore an uncanny resemblance to her own voice.
This incident raised alarms for Johansson, prompting her to question the lack of boundaries in AI development. “There has to be some agreed-upon set of boundaries in order for [AI] to not be detrimental,” she stated, urging others in the public eye to join her in this crucial conversation.
Legal actions against AI misuse
In 2023, Johansson took a stand against an AI image-generating app that used her likeness without permission. Her legal team sent letters to OpenAI demanding clarification on how the AI assistant’s voice was created.
Following public outcry, OpenAI agreed to halt the use of the voice that resembled Johansson’s. The actress’s legal actions highlight the growing concern among celebrities regarding the unauthorized use of their identities in the digital realm.
Johansson’s role in the AI conversation
Despite her reluctance to be a spokesperson for AI regulation, Johansson recognizes the importance of her voice in this dialogue. “I don’t need to be beating the drum the whole time. But, also, I’m not afraid of being invalidated,” she remarked.
Her journey in Hollywood, which began in childhood, has equipped her with the confidence to advocate for herself and others facing similar challenges in the age of AI.
As AI technology continues to advance, the conversation surrounding its ethical implications becomes increasingly vital. Johansson’s commitment to raising awareness about the potential dangers of AI serves as a reminder that boundaries must be established to protect individuals from exploitation. The actress’s call for legislation is not just about her own experiences; it reflects a broader concern for the rights of all individuals in a world where technology can easily blur the lines of consent and personal identity.
