Scarlett Johansson Slams AI Deepfake Video Targeting Kanye West

Actress Scarlett Johansson and AI enthusiasts have criticized an Israeli artist's use of non-consensual celebrity deepfakes in a video aimed at combating Kanye West's antisemitic posts. The video, created by Ori Bejerano, features AI-generated versions of Jewish celebrities, including Johansson, Woody Allen, and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, wearing t-shirts with the Star of David giving one-finger salutes to West.

Johansson, who has previously spoken out against AI-generated content, expressed her disapproval of the video. "I am a Jewish woman who has no tolerance for antisemitism or hate speech of any kind," she told Variety, "but I also firmly believe that the potential for hate speech multiplied by A.I. is a far greater threat than any one person who takes accountability for it."

Photographer and NASA social ambassador Mack Murdoc also criticized the use of AI for propaganda. "Pushing boundaries is necessary, but there's a line," Murdoc commented on Bejerano's Instagram post. "AI-generated videos steal voices, manipulate narratives, and normalize deception. Fighting hate with lies makes us no better. This video, despite its good intent, violates rights, freedoms, and integrity. I can't support this."

Johansson's stance on AI-generated content is not new. In 2019, she tangled with OpenAI over a voice assistant that mimicked hers without permission. "When I heard the demo, I was shocked, angered, and in disbelief that Mr. Altman would pursue a voice that sounded so eerily similar to mine," she said in a statement. "In a time where we are all grappling with deepfakes and the protection of our own likeness, our own work, our own identities, I believe there are questions that deserve absolute clarity."

In response to West's antisemitic posts, platforms like Shopify have removed his merchandise, and advocacy groups, including the Anti-Defamation League, have condemned his actions. Actual celebrities, such as David Schwimmer and Isla Fisher, have also spoken out against his antisemitic content without resorting to AI-generated content.