Scarlett Johansson, known for her roles in various blockbuster films, recently voiced her disapproval of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. In an interview with The New York Times, Johansson hinted that Altman would make a convincing Marvel villain, possibly with a robotic arm. This jab stems from a previous feud between the two when Altman’s OpenAI allegedly used an imitation of Johansson’s voice without her consent in the movie “Her.” Despite OpenAI’s claims that it was not a direct imitation, Johansson expressed feeling shocked and angered by the situation. She mentioned that she declined OpenAI’s initial request to use her voice and was taken aback by the company’s actions. Johansson’s moral compass guided her decision, citing that it conflicted with her core values and that she wanted to shield her children from potential repercussions.
Navigating the Dark Waters of Technology
In the interview, Johansson also shared her thoughts on AI-generated deepfakes, referring to them as a “dark wormhole” with no escape. She highlighted the challenges of combating such technology, as once something is taken down in one place, it reappears elsewhere due to differing regulations in various countries. Johansson emphasized the detrimental impact of deepfake content, particularly on individuals whose lives could be ruined by vengeful ex-partners creating deceptive videos. She expressed concern for the rapid advancements in technology, stating that our human capacity to process these changes is lagging behind. Johansson likened the onslaught of technology to a massive wave crashing down, especially affecting young people who are more vulnerable to its repercussions.
While Johansson’s encounter with OpenAI left a bitter taste, her dispute with Disney over the release of “Black Widow” showed her resolve. Disney’s decision to launch the film simultaneously in theaters and on Disney+ Premier Access breached their contract, which stipulated an exclusive theatrical release. The ensuing legal battle led to public scrutiny, with Disney accusing Johansson of insensitivity towards the COVID-19 pandemic while revealing her substantial salary. However, Johansson defended her position, arguing that the altered release strategy would cost her significant backend compensation. Despite the contentious nature of the disagreement, Johansson maintained that she harbors no animosity towards Disney, attributing the ordeal to poor judgment and unprofessionalism on their part.
Despite grappling with technology-related controversies and Hollywood disputes, Scarlett Johansson continues to pursue her acting career. Currently starring in the romantic comedy “Fly Me to the Moon,” Johansson’s resilience and unwavering principles shine through. Her outspokenness on issues concerning privacy, artistic integrity, and fair compensation exemplify her commitment to upholding ethical standards in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape. As technology continues to shape our world, Johansson’s experiences serve as a reminder of the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs, regardless of the challenges that may arise.