What Scarlett Johansson v. OpenAI Could Look Like in Court
May 23, 2024
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Scarlett Johansson discusses potential legal action against OpenAI for a chat AI's voice resembling hers. Legal experts analyze right of publicity laws and debate if it was a publicity stunt.
Legal implications of voice replication in AI technology could lead to disputes over right of publicity laws.
Distinguishing between imitation and style in voice usage is crucial to avoid confusion for listeners.
Deep dives
Dispute over Chat GPT Voice
Scarlett Johansson considering legal action against OpenAI for using a voice on Chat GPT, she found similar to hers from the movie Her. OpenAI showcased a synthetic voice, which Johansson believed imitated her distinct voice without permission. Legal experts suggest a potential focus on right of publicity laws for Johansson's claim, as seen in past legal cases involving unauthorized use of voices. Although OpenAI claimed no intentional imitation, Johansson's response and legal counsel involvement highlight the complexity of intellectual property rights in AI technology.
Legal Implications and Precedents
The discussion delves into legal aspects surrounding the right of publicity and voice attribution in AI technology. Reference is made to historical legal cases like Bette Midler's lawsuit against Ford Motor Company for using an imitation of her voice without permission. Legal experts weigh in on the distinction between imitation and style in voice usage, emphasizing the importance of avoiding confusion for listeners. The intricate nature of right of publicity laws, varying across states, adds complexity to potential legal actions concerning voice replication in AI technology.
If Scarlett Johansson pursues legal action against OpenAI for giving ChatGPT a voice she calls “eerily similar to mine,” she might claim the company breached her right to publicity.