Scarlett Johansson has voiced concerns over the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) deepfake videos after a digitally manipulated clip featuring her and several celebrities criticizing Kanye West went viral. The actress is calling for stricter regulations to prevent the misuse of AI, warning of the potential dangers it poses.
Johansson Condemns AI Manipulation
The viral deepfake video surfaced following Kanye West’s recent controversial statements, which sparked widespread backlash. Johansson, who was among those featured in the AI-generated clip, issued a strong statement urging the U.S. government to take action against the unregulated use of AI.
“As a Jewish woman, my tolerance for antisemitism or hate speech of any kind is at its lowest,” Johansson stated. “But I also firmly believe that the potential for hate speech amplified by AI is a far greater threat than any one individual. We must call out the misuse of AI, no matter its message, or we risk losing control of reality.”
The actress also emphasized the urgent need for AI regulations in the United States, noting that other countries have already taken steps to address the issue.
“It is alarming that the U.S. government has yet to pass legislation protecting its citizens from the imminent dangers of AI,” she added. “This is a bipartisan issue that significantly impacts the future of humanity.”
The Deepfake Featured Multiple Celebrities
Johansson was not the only public figure digitally inserted into the AI-generated video. According to The Hollywood Reporter, other well-known figures, including Adam Sandler, Jerry Seinfeld, Sacha Baron Cohen, Steven Spielberg, and David Schwimmer, were also depicted wearing anti-Kanye T-shirts.
The video’s origin remains unknown, and it is unclear who was responsible for creating and distributing the manipulated content.
Kanye West Faces Backlash Over Controversial Statements
West, also known as “Ye,” has faced widespread criticism for recent remarks on social media. His statements led to further calls for action against hate speech on online platforms.
Actor David Schwimmer publicly urged Elon Musk to remove West’s account from X, formerly Twitter, stating:
“Kanye West has 32.7 million followers on your platform. His rhetoric can lead to real-life consequences, and allowing him to spread such messages is dangerous.”
Meanwhile, actress Isla Fisher encouraged her followers to unfollow West, expressing strong opposition to his actions.