The battle against unauthorized AI-generated voice imitations heats up as prominent celebrities, with Morgan Freeman being latest one to fall victim to the controversial technology.
- Jun 30, 2024
AceShowbiz - Hollywood's ongoing struggle with AI-generated voice imitations has caught the attention of several high-profile actors, with Morgan Freeman being the latest to speak out about the issue. Known for his distinctive narration voice, Freeman recently thanked his fans for alerting him to a TikTok user who had gone viral by mimicking his voice using AI technology.
Freeman took to social media to express his gratitude, saying, "Thank you to my incredible fans for your vigilance and support in calling out the unauthorized use of an A.I. voice imitating me. Your dedication helps authenticity and integrity remain paramount. Grateful."
He added several hashtags including "#scam" to emphasize his dismay. The actor's reaction highlights a growing concern in the entertainment industry regarding the ethical use of AI.
The issue isn't exclusive to Freeman. Scarlett Johansson also recently faced a similar situation with OpenAI, which allegedly used her voice for its AI system despite her refusal to license it. Johansson voiced her frustration, stating she was "shocked, angered, and in disbelief" upon hearing a demo eerily similar to her voice.
During the SAG Awards in February, SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher also touched on the dangers of AI, urging the industry to focus on storytelling that "sparks the human spirit" rather than allowing AI to dictate what's real. She emphasized the importance of empathy and spirituality in technological advancements.
Artificial Intelligence's capability to replicate voices convincingly poses significant challenges for the entertainment industry, where the authenticity of a recognizable voice is paramount.
Morgan Freeman's statement, along with other celebrities' reactions, underscores the need for stricter regulations and ethical considerations in the use of AI technology.
As the debate continues, Hollywood is urging Congress to consider measures to control AI's misuse, although specific legislation remains uncertain. For now, the voices that have long captivated audiences are rallying together, defending their right to authenticity in an increasingly digital world.
