OpenAI Faces Backlash Over AI Voice Resembling Scarlett Johansson
OpenAI has halted the use of one of its new AI voice models following backlash over its striking similarity to actress Scarlett Johansson’s voice, particularly her role in the 2013 sci-fi film “Her.” This decision came after Johansson publicly expressed her surprise and displeasure, citing that the voice sounded eerily similar to hers.
The controversy began when OpenAI showcased its latest version of ChatGPT, known as GPT-4o, which featured several voice options, including one named “Sky.” Observers quickly noted the uncanny resemblance between Sky’s voice and Johansson’s portrayal of the AI character in “Her.” Johansson confirmed that she had been approached by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman last year to lend her voice to the project but had declined the offer for personal reasons.
In a statement released on May 20, 2024, Johansson described her reaction to hearing the demo as one of shock and disbelief. “I was shocked, angered, and in disbelief that Mr. Altman would pursue a voice that sounded so eerily similar to mine that my closest friends and news outlets could not tell the difference,” she stated.
Forensic voice experts at Arizona State University conducted an analysis at NPR’s request and found that the Sky voice was more similar to Johansson’s voice than 98% of other professional actresses. Despite this, OpenAI maintained that the voice was created using a different professional voice actor and was not intended to mimic Johansson.
In response to the backlash, Altman acknowledged the issue in a statement, clarifying that the voice was not meant to resemble Johansson’s and was developed before any outreach to her. “Out of respect for Ms. Johansson, we have paused using Sky’s voice in our products,” Altman stated.
The incident has sparked discussions about the ethical and legal implications of using AI-generated voices that closely resemble those of well-known individuals without their consent. Johansson’s legal team has demanded that OpenAI disclose how the voice was developed, highlighting the need for transparency and respect for intellectual property rights in the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence.
This development is a reminder of the complexities and responsibilities that come with the advancement of AI technologies, especially as they become more integrated into daily life and entertainment.
Image by Gage Skidmore and shared under Creative Commons 2.0 license.
