UNITED STATES: Renowned actress and activist Scarlett Johansson has launched legal proceedings against a company that utilized her likeness and voice without consent for their AI application. Johansson’s attorney, Kevin Yorn, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “We do not take these things lightly,” and assuring that they will employ all available legal means to address the matter.
The unauthorized 22-second advertisement came to light on October 28 when it was shared on X/Twitter by the image-generating app Lisa AI: 90s Yearbook & Avatar. The clip, unapproved by Johansson, features an AI rendition of the Marvel star purportedly on the set of the film ‘Black Widow’.
In the video, the simulated Johansson invites viewers, saying, “What’s up, guys? It’s Scarlett, and I want you to come with me,” from a backstage area. Under the ad, in fine print, a disclaimer reads: “Images produced by Lisa AI. It has nothing to do with this person.”
The incident highlights broader concerns over the regulation of AI technology, a subject that actors have been advocating for during the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike. SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher underscored the industry-changing impact of streaming, digital, and AI technologies, emphasizing the need for updated regulations.
Several prominent actors, including Tom Cruise and Tom Hanks, have also voiced their concerns about the potential risks associated with artificial intelligence. Tom Hanks cautioned his followers on Instagram in September about a promotional video featuring a computer-generated version of himself for a dental plan, firmly stating, “BEWARE! There’s a video out there promoting some dental plans with an AI version of me. I have nothing to do with it.”
