Scarlett Johansson Advocates for AI Regulation in the U.S.
Renowned actress Scarlett Johansson is urging American lawmakers to prioritize the enactment of regulations that limit the application of artificial intelligence technologies.
In a detailed statement shared with Deadline, Johansson criticizes the “abuse” of AI, describing herself as a “notable victim” of such technology. This statement comes in the wake of a viral video featuring AI-generated depictions of Johansson, alongside other celebrities like Drake, Jerry Seinfeld, and Mark Zuckerberg, addressing Kanye West for his antisemitic remarks.
The AI-generated johansson in the video is depicted wearing a white T-shirt emblazoned with a hand gesture, the name “kanye,” and a Star of David. The video concludes with the phrases “Enough is Enough” and ”Join the fight Against Antisemitism.” Other celebrities, including Simon & Garfunkel and Sacha Baron Cohen, are shown in similar attire.
The YouTube description clarifies that the images are AI-generated.
“Family and friends have informed me about an AI-generated video using my likeness, which is circulating online in response to antisemitic views. As a Jewish woman, I have zero tolerance for antisemitism or any form of hate speech.However, I am deeply concerned that AI’s potential to amplify hate speech poses a greater threat than any individual accountable for it. We must address AI misuse, nonetheless of its message, to maintain our grasp on reality.”
Scarlett Johansson
she further elaborates, “I have been a conspicuous victim of AI, but the reality is that AI’s threat impacts everyone.”
“A meaningful wave of AI challenges is approaching, and while several progressive nations have responsibly addressed it, the United States remains stagnant in passing legislation to protect its citizens from AI’s looming dangers.”
“I implore the U.S. government to prioritize legislation that restricts AI usage; it is a bipartisan issue with profound implications for humanity’s immediate future.”
Johansson’s statement does not directly mention West, who has been in the news for his increasingly harmful comments about Jewish people and self-identification as a nazi.
Deadline has reached out to Johansson’s representatives for additional remarks.