Robin Williams was an iconic actor loved by many around the world. His talent and unforgettable voice brought life to numerous beloved characters in films like Aladdin and Robots. However, his daughter, Zelda Williams, has recently spoken out against the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to recreate her late father’s voice.
In a post on her Instagram Story, Zelda expressed her concerns about the use of AI in the entertainment industry, particularly in regards to recreating the voices of actors who have passed away. She stated, “I am not an impartial voice in SAG’s fight against AI. I’ve witnessed for YEARS how many people want to train these models to create/recreate actors who cannot consent, like Dad. This isn’t theoretical, it is very very real. I’ve already heard AI used to get his ‘voice’ to say whatever people want and while I find it personally disturbing, the ramifications go far beyond my own feelings.”
Zelda’s words shed light on a larger issue within the industry. As Hollywood actors are currently on strike, one of the main points of contention is the use of AI. This strike has brought attention to the conversations surrounding not only the use of AI but also residual payments for actors. It seems that the actors are concerned about the implications of AI in the entertainment industry and are taking action to protect their rights.
The debate about AI raises questions about the ethical implications of using technology to recreate the voices of deceased individuals. While some may argue that AI could be used to honor and continue the legacies of actors like Robin Williams, others, like Zelda, believe that living actors should have the opportunity to create characters with their own choices and effort.
Zelda’s heartfelt statement resonates with many people, not only because of her personal connection to the subject but also because it raises broader concerns about the nature of AI and its impact on the entertainment industry. She passionately stated, “These recreations are, at their very best, a poor facsimile of greater people, but at their worst, a horrendous Frankensteinian monster, cobbled together from the worst bits of everything this industry is, instead of what it should stand for.”
The strike by Hollywood actors has had significant implications for the industry, from talk shows going off the air to TV and film productions being put on hold. The strike has brought attention to the ongoing discussions about AI and its role in the creative process. As SAG-AFTRA resumes talks with the studios this week, it is clear that this issue is far from resolved.
The concerns raised by Zelda Williams and other actors highlight the need for careful consideration and conversation surrounding the use of AI in the entertainment industry. As technology continues to advance, it is important to navigate the ethical implications and strike a balance between innovation and respecting the rights of living actors.
Use the share button below if you liked it.