OpenAI has opted to "pause" the utilization of its new Sky voice in ChatGPT amidst controversy surrounding its selection and acquisition process. On May 20, the developer responded to inquiries regarding Sky's voice, one of the five voices offered for its chatbot, amid public apprehension.

Scarlett Johansson's Remarks

The controversy arose when actress Scarlett Johansson asserted that OpenAI's Sky voice bore a striking resemblance to her own. Johansson disclosed that OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, had initially proposed for her to provide a voice for ChatGPT 4.0, an offer she declined. Despite this, Johansson was surprised to find that Sky's voice closely mirrored her own, leading her to express astonishment and frustration, stating, “When I heard the demo, I was shocked, angered, and in disbelief that Mr. Altman would pursue a voice that sounded so eerily similar to mine that my closest friends and news outlets could not tell the difference.” Consequently, Johansson has enlisted legal representation to address the matter.

OpenAI's Response

In response, OpenAI clarified its process for selecting voice actors for ChatGPT, asserting that Sky's voice is not an imitation of Johansson's. “We believe that AI voices should not deliberately mimic a celebrity's distinctive voice—Sky’s voice is not an imitation of Scarlett Johansson but belongs to a different professional actress using her own natural speaking voice.” OpenAI elaborated on the casting procedure, emphasizing their commitment to ethical AI usage and transparency.

Wider Context and Industry Ramifications

This incident reflects Johansson's previous experiences with unauthorized AI utilization of her likeness. Last year, she filed a lawsuit against another AI company for similar reasons. The broader issue of AI impersonation has been a significant concern in Hollywood, underscored during the SAG-AFTRA union strikes, where actors demanded safeguards against studios' unauthorized use of their likenesses.

Escalating Concerns Regarding AI Impersonation

Various public figures, including YouTube personality Mr. Beast, actor Tom Hanks, and entrepreneur Elon Musk, have encountered AI-generated impersonation scams. Additionally, Susan Bennett, the original voice behind Apple's Siri, revealed she was unaware her recordings would be utilized for the assistant, receiving neither payment nor acknowledgment.

As AI technology progresses, ethical guidelines and transparency become increasingly imperative to prevent misuse and safeguard individuals' rights. The resolution of this controversy may establish crucial precedents for the future of AI voice technology.