Scarlett Johansson Sues Developer for Using AI-Cloned Voice and Likeness
Scarlett Johansson, the renowned Hollywood actress, has taken legal action against Convert Software, a developer responsible for using her AI-cloned voice and likeness without her consent. The lawsuit comes after the actress discovered that the developer had used her voice and image for an advertisement promoting their Lisa AI app. The ad falsely depicted Johansson as an ambassador for the app, misleading viewers into thinking she endorsed it.
The Lisa AI app, developed by Convert Software, allows users to generate AI-generated images and videos of themselves. To showcase the capabilities of their app, the developer dishonestly utilized Scarlett Johansson’s AI-generated voice and even incorporated real footage of her speaking. This misleading action not only disrespects the actress’ wishes but also deceives the audience who views the ad.
The lawsuit filed by Scarlett Johansson addresses a particular ad for Convert Software’s Lisa AI: 90s Yearbook & Avatar app. In the ad, the actress’s voice was prominently featured, introducing viewers to the app’s various uses. The ad began with a behind-the-scenes footage of Johansson from the movie Black Widow, where she is heard saying, What’s up guys? It’s Scarlett and I want you to come with me. This scene is then followed by showcasing the Lisa AI app and explaining its functionalities.
The inclusion of an AI-generated voice imitating Scarlett Johansson in the ad further emphasized the endorsement of the app by the actress. The voice claimed that the Lisa app was not limited to avatars only, and proceeded to explain other uses of the app. Viewers would understandably believe that the voice was indeed Johansson’s, further endorsing the usage of the app.
Kevin Yorn, Scarlett Johansson’s attorney, emphasized that the images produced by the Lisa AI app have nothing to do with the actress herself. Thus, the advertisement not only impersonates Scarlett Johansson but also deceives viewers. The actions of Convert Software are clearly in violation, and they may face severe consequences in court for their misleading and unauthorized use of the actress’s voice and likeness.
The lawsuit is significant not only for Scarlett Johansson’s case but also in raising awareness about the ethical implications of using AI technology to clone someone’s voice and likeness without their consent. The outcome of this court case could potentially set a legal precedent and establish guidelines for the responsible and ethical use of AI-generated content.
As this legal battle unfolds, it serves as a reminder that the rapid advancement of AI technology calls for a comprehensive framework to protect individuals’ rights and prevent unauthorized use of their voices and images. As celebrities like Scarlett Johansson continue to face such infringements on their likeness, it becomes increasingly crucial to establish clear boundaries and regulations to ensure ethical practices in this emerging field.
In the meantime, Scarlett Johansson’s lawsuit against Convert Software will shed light on the serious consequences that developers may face for their unauthorized use of AI-cloned voices and likenesses. The outcome of this case will not only affect the parties involved but will also shape the future landscape of AI technology and its ethical use in various industries.
