Scarlett Johansson Calls for U.S. Government to Rein In AI Amid Viral Video Controversy

Scarlett Johansson is urging the U.S. government to take action against AI after she was featured in a viral anti-Kanye West video that has sparked widespread criticism. The AI-generated video, which includes Johansson and several other celebrities, features a white T-shirt bearing a cartoon middle finger that contains a Star of David, symbolizing the artist’s response to West’s Super Bowl stunt.

The Controversy Over Kanye West’s Super Bowl Ad

West had bought ad space during the big game to drive people to his personal website, but after the ad aired, he changed the website into a storefront with a single item: a white T-shirt with a swastika on it. The move sparked outrage, and Shopify quickly pulled the storefront after it went live.

A Deceptive AI-Generated Video

The AI-generated video, created by Ori Bejerano, a self-proclaimed ‘Generative AI Expert’ and employee at Gitam BBDO, appears to be authentic at first glance. However, close examination reveals tell-tale signs of AI generation, including mismatched bodies, younger-appearing celebrities, and strange artifacts.

Scarlett Johansson’s Response

Johansson expressed her dismay in a statement, saying, "It has been brought to my attention by family members and friends that an AI-generated video featuring my likeness, in response to an antisemitic view, has been circulating online and gaining traction." As a Jewish woman, Johansson has "no tolerance for antisemitism or hate speech of any kind." However, she also emphasizes that the potential for hate speech multiplied by AI poses a greater threat than any individual perpetrator.

Johansson’s Connection to AI

Johansson was the voice of an advanced AI chatbot in the 2013 film Her. Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, had been trying to have her reprise her role as the voice of ChatGPT, but Johansson refused. When OpenAI released the voice model, one of the options sounded suspiciously like the actress, leading Johansson to sue. After her public disagreement, OpenAI removed the voice from its platform.

A Call to Action

Johansson urged the U.S. government to make legislation limiting AI use a top priority, stating, "It is a bipartisan issue that enormously affects the immediate future of humanity at large." She emphasized that this is not just a concern for the arts but a pressing issue for the entire world.

The AI Expert’s Response

Bejerano, the creator of the AI-generated video, is celebrating his viral success on social media, despite the controversy surrounding his work. His Instagram account features bizarre AI-generated content, including himself posing as a noble astronaut, a Roman bust, and Superman, as well as a disturbing video of a far-right Israeli politician watching Teletubbies and dreaming of a world where Donald Trump rules Gaza.

The Larger Concern

The viral video highlights the potential risks of AI-generated content, which can spread hate speech and misinformation. As AI technology continues to evolve, it is essential for governments and authorities to take proactive measures to regulate and limit its misuse, ensuring that it serves the greater good rather than exacerbating societal problems.