In May 2024, actress Scarlett Johansson publicly expressed her dismay over OpenAI’s release of a synthetic voice named “Sky,” which she claimed bore an uncanny resemblance to her own. Johansson revealed that OpenAI had previously approached her to license her voice for their ChatGPT assistant, an offer she declined. Despite her refusal, the company proceeded with a voice that Johansson and many others found strikingly similar to hers, prompting her to take legal action and sparking a broader conversation about the ethical use of artificial intelligence.
Johansson’s Objections and Legal Action
Johansson stated that she was “shocked, angered, and in disbelief” upon hearing the “Sky” voice, noting that her friends, family, and the general public found it eerily similar to her own. She emphasized that OpenAI CEO Sam Altman had previously approached her in September 2023 to voice the ChatGPT 4.0 system, an offer she declined for personal reasons. Just two days before the system’s release, Altman contacted her agent again, but before they could connect, the “Sky” voice was unveiled. Johansson subsequently hired legal counsel, who sent letters to OpenAI requesting details about the creation of the “Sky” voice. Following these inquiries, OpenAI agreed to pause the use of “Sky.”
OpenAI’s Response
OpenAI maintained that the “Sky” voice was not intended to imitate Johansson and was created using the natural speaking voice of a different professional actress. The company stated that it had worked with industry-leading casting and directing professionals to select the voices for ChatGPT, emphasizing that none were designed to mimic any celebrity. However, the resemblance between “Sky” and Johansson’s voice, particularly her role as an AI assistant in the 2013 film “Her,” led to widespread comparisons and criticism.
Broader Implications and Industry Reactions
The controversy surrounding the “Sky” voice has highlighted the challenges and ethical considerations in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. Johansson’s experience underscores concerns about the unauthorized use of individuals’ likenesses and voices, especially as AI-generated content becomes more prevalent. The Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) expressed support for Johansson, emphasizing the need for clear regulations to protect performers’ rights in the age of AI.
Legal experts have noted that Johansson could have a strong case if she pursued legal action against OpenAI, citing precedents where courts have ruled in favor of individuals whose distinctive voices were used without consent. The situation has prompted calls for legislation to address the use of AI in replicating human likenesses, aiming to ensure transparency and protect individual rights.
Conclusion
Scarlett Johansson’s confrontation with OpenAI over the “Sky” voice brings to light the complexities and ethical dilemmas posed by advancements in artificial intelligence. As technology continues to evolve, this incident serves as a catalyst for discussions on the need for clear guidelines and protections to prevent the unauthorized use of individuals’ identities in AI-generated content.
