Summary: Scarlett Johansson is considering legal action against OpenAI after the company showcased a synthetic voice for ChatGPT that she claims sounds “eerily similar” to her own voice. OpenAI maintains the voice belongs to a different actress, but the incident raises significant questions about right of publicity laws and impersonation boundaries.
Johansson’s Allegations Against OpenAI
Scarlett Johansson recently expressed shock and disbelief upon hearing the new expressive voice for ChatGPT, named “Sky.” She claims the voice mirrors her own and closely resembles Samantha, the AI assistant she voiced in the 2013 film “Her.” This similarity has pushed her to hire legal counsel to seek answers from OpenAI.
OpenAI’s Defense
OpenAI asserts that the voice is not an imitation and credits a different professional actress. They acknowledge approaching Johansson last year to voice ChatGPT, an offer she declined. Interestingly, a one-word social media post from OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman on the demo day is perceived as referencing Johansson’s role in “Her,” further entwining her with the new voice.
Legal Perspectives on Right of Publicity
Intellectual property experts believe Johansson’s strongest argument lies within right of publicity laws. These laws protect against unauthorized use of an individual’s name or distinctive characteristics. A precedent is Bette Midler’s 1980s case against an ad agency for hiring a soundalike to mimic her voice, which she won.
Opinions on Likelihood of Johansson’s Success
Opinions among lawyers vary. Some are skeptical, doubting that OpenAI’s use amounts to illegal impersonation. Others believe Johansson has a compelling case, especially given OpenAI’s previous offer and circumstantial evidence suggesting a connection to her role. The final verdict may largely rest on a jury’s interpretation of these nuances.
Ultimately, Scarlett Johansson’s claim against OpenAI not only brings to light ongoing issues about voice imitation and right of publicity but also highlights the complex intersections between technology, entertainment, and legal protections.
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