Brian Cox, renowned for his role as Logan Roy in the hit series Succession, has voiced strong concerns about using artificial intelligence (AI) to replicate actors’ images and voices. Speaking at the premiere of the James Bond-inspired quiz show “007: Road To A Million,” Cox stated that this practice constitutes “identity theft” and should be treated as a “human rights issue.”
AI and identity theft
Cox’s assertion that AI-driven replication of actors’ images and voices amounts to identity theft highlights the ethical and legal complexities surrounding this issue. With advancements in generative AI technology, deepfake videos have become increasingly convincing, making it difficult to discern real from fabricated content. This has raised concerns not only among actors but also in society at large.
Vulnerability of young actors
Cox expressed concern for young actors who may be more vulnerable to exploitation by unscrupulous producers. These emerging talents may find themselves in situations where they are pressured into consenting to use their likeness in AI-generated content. Often lacking experience and guidance, they might unwittingly agree to terms that could have long-lasting repercussions for their careers and personal lives.
Ongoing strikes and negotiations
In the United States, actors have been on strike for over 100 days, demanding better pay and work conditions, including stronger safeguards against the unauthorized use of their images through AI. Negotiations between the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) have been ongoing, with AI technology proving to be a major point of contention.
High-profile deepfake victims
The issue of AI-generated deepfakes has garnered attention due to several high-profile cases. Hollywood stars like Scarlett Johansson, Tom Hanks, Tom Cruise, and Keanu Reeves have all fallen victim to unauthorized deepfake advertisements. These incidents have ignited debates about the need for stricter regulations and protections against using AI-generated content.
UK AI summit at Bletchley Park
In the United Kingdom, a two-day AI summit at Bletchley Park, famous for being the home of Britain’s Second World War codebreakers, brought together politicians, tech leaders, and academics to discuss the challenges and opportunities of artificial intelligence. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated that the event aimed to “tip the balance in favor of humanity.”
The Bletchley declaration
During the summit, a significant development emerged in the form of the “Bletchley Declaration.” This declaration includes commitments from 28 nations, including the United States and China, to collaborate on researching safety concerns related to the world’s most capable AI models. The declaration reflects the growing global consensus on the need for responsible AI development and usage.
Industry reform and ethical considerations
Cox’s remarks underscore the urgency of addressing AI’s impact on the entertainment industry. While AI has the potential to enhance creativity and efficiency in filmmaking and other media, it also poses significant ethical challenges. The boundary between artistic expression and identity preservation is becoming increasingly blurred.
Brian Cox’s candid remarks regarding AI’s use in replicating actors’ images and voices have reignited discussions surrounding the ethical and legal implications of this technology. As the entertainment industry grapples with the rise of deepfake content, the ongoing strikes, negotiations, and international collaborations emphasize the need for comprehensive reforms and ethical considerations in using AI. The Bletchley Declaration signifies a step towards a more responsible approach to AI development, prioritizing the protection of individual identities and creative expression. In this rapidly evolving landscape, the balance between technological advancement and human rights remains at the forefront of the conversation.
Source: https://www.cryptopolitan.com/cox-concerns-over-ai-use-to-replicate-actors/