Tom Hanks and Zelda Williams Speak Out Against AI Deepfakes
Legendary actor Tom Hanks and Zelda Williams, daughter of the late Robin Williams, have expressed their concerns about the increasing prevalence of AI deepfakes. Hanks recently discovered an AI-generated video of himself promoting a dental plan, which he promptly disavowed on Instagram. Similarly, Williams took to Instagram to condemn the use of AI to recreate her father’s voice.
Celebrities Facing Deepfake Challenges
This is not an isolated incident. Several celebrities, including Hanks and Williams, have had their likeness used in AI-generated deepfakes recently. Williams emphasized that living actors deserve the opportunity to create characters using their own choices and efforts rather than having their voices manipulated by AI.
Metaphysic’s Database as a Solution
Last month, Hanks, along with Anne Hathaway and Octavia Spencer, reportedly had their characteristics stored in Metaphysic’s database to prevent deepfake manipulation. Hanks even expressed his belief that his career could continue indefinitely thanks to his digital avatar from the film “The Polar Express.”
The Dark Side of Deepfakes
Deepfakes are becoming increasingly convincing and pose a serious threat. Scammers are exploiting this technology to deceive people by posting fake content. The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Securities and Exchange Commission have issued warnings about the dangers of deepfakes.
Concerns Beyond Celebrities
The concern about digital likeness exploitation extends beyond A-list celebrities. The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has been in dispute with Hollywood studios over the practice of scanning background actors’ full bodies for indefinite reuse. This raises questions about the dehumanization of actors and the lack of adaptability that AI possesses.
Hot Take: The Urgent Need to Address Deepfake Threats
The rise of AI deepfakes is a cause for alarm, as it poses risks to both individuals and society as a whole. Celebrities like Tom Hanks and Zelda Williams are speaking out against the misuse of their likeness, emphasizing the importance of preserving the creative choices and efforts of living actors. The development of deepfake technology calls for stricter regulations and countermeasures to protect people from falling victim to deceptive manipulation.
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