Scarlett Johansson is making headlines after slamming OpenAI for using an 'eerily similar' voice on their ChatGPT's Sky system. The "Black Widow" star called out OpenAI CEO Sam Altman for allegedly using a voice in its artificial intelligence software that she believes sounds like her own without her consent, as reported by E! Online.
The Allegations
According to Johansson, the businessman approached her with an offer to be the voice of the ChatGPT 4.0 system, which she declined due to personal reasons. However, she was shocked to hear a demo of the new system called "Sky" that featured a voice she felt was eerily similar to hers, despite her rejection of the initial offer. Johansson expressed her disbelief and anger at the situation, mentioning that even her friends, family, and the general public noticed the similarities.
She further alleged that Altman had contacted her agent just days before the demo was released, asking her to reconsider the offer. This led Johansson to seek legal counsel as a result of what she perceived as unauthorized use of her likeness and voice.
OpenAI's Response
In response to the controversy, OpenAI addressed the concerns over the "Sky" voice by stating that they are working to pause the use of it while they address the issues raised. The organization denied intentionally replicating Johansson's voice, emphasizing that AI voices should not deliberately mimic a celebrity's distinctive voice. They clarified that Sky's voice belongs to a different professional actress using her own natural speaking voice.
Despite the organization's statement, Johansson stressed the importance of clarity and protection of individual rights, especially in a time when concerns over deepfakes and the safeguarding of personal identities are prevalent. She called for transparency and the passage of appropriate legislation to ensure the protection of individual rights in such cases.
As the controversy continues to unfold, E! News has reached out to Altman, ChatGPT, and OpenAI for their comments on the actress' statement but has not received a response at the time of reporting.
