Scarlett Johansson and Cate Blanchett Launch Anti-AI Campaign
In a bold move, over 700 artists, writers, and creators, including renowned figures like Scarlett Johansson and Cate Blanchett, have launched an anti-AI campaign. This initiative vehemently opposes the exploitation of copyrighted work by technology companies. These artists argue that the unauthorized use of their creations is a blatant form of theft, contradicting the principles of innovation and progress.
Campaign Against AI Exploitation
The letter emphasizes the importance of protecting authorship within the U.S. creative industry. This sector encompasses film, television, music, publishing, and digital media, supporting millions of jobs and contributing significantly to economic growth. The campaign’s statement underscores the necessity of safeguarding this creative ecosystem, which it describes as “the envy of the world.”
Concerns Over AI Development
Artists express deep concern about AI developers using their creative works without permission or compensation. The statement asserts that numerous tech companies, often backed by private equity, exploit this valuable asset without regard for copyright laws.
Calls for Responsible Practices
The campaign advocates for responsible licensing agreements between tech firms and content creators. Some companies have begun to engage in ethical partnerships, demonstrating that it is possible to balance AI advancement with the protection of creators’ rights. The statement contends, “A better way exists.”
Voices of Experience: Johansson and Blanchett
Scarlett Johansson has been an outspoken critic of AI’s potential dangers. Notably, she took legal action in November 2023 against an AI application that misused her likeness for advertising without consent. Furthermore, she condemned OpenAI in May 2024 for utilizing her voice from the film “Her” as inspiration for an AI chatbot.
Similarly, Cate Blanchett has consistently voiced her concerns about artificial intelligence. During a conversation at TIFF in 2024, she emphasized the necessity for cautious discussions surrounding new technologies. Blanchett remarked, “Innovation without imagination is a very, very dangerous thing.”
Historical Advocacy
Last year, Blanchett and fellow artist Joseph Gordon-Levitt joined over 400 creative professionals in signing an open letter. This letter was directed to the Trump administration, urging them to maintain strong copyright protections against pressure from AI companies.
Conclusion
The collective message from these artists is clear: “Stealing our work is not innovation. It’s theft – plain and simple.” The anti-AI campaign aims to foster dialogue and policy changes that respect and protect the rights of creators while allowing technological advancement to continue responsibly.
