After discovering that her image had been used in an advertisement without her permission, the renowned actress Scarlett Johansson has decided to pursue legal action against an application that uses artificial intelligence to create publicity. The app gained viral popularity through a video in which it adopted the appearance of the well-known film star.
As announced, Scarlett Johansson’s representatives have confirmed that they are seeking legal action against the Lisa AI app: 90s Yearbook and Avatar. The disputed video is an advertisement for the algorithm itself, in which a fake version of the actress invites the public to get to know her and showcases, with a voice that also attempts to emulate the protagonist of Black Widow, the type of images and videos it can generate based on others’ appearances.
“We do not take this lightly. As we usually do in these situations, we will address this with all available legal remedies,” stated Kevin Yorn, Johansson’s lawyer. The report indicates that many similar apps, created by the Convert Software company, exist and can be downloaded from the Google Play store. Representatives from the company declined to comment on the case.
This issue is precisely one of the central points of the current Hollywood actors’ strike. Union members are seeking protections against the use of artificial intelligence for both extras and lead roles in films and series. They also demand substantial compensation for those who choose to lend their likeness to studios and other clients in the industry.
However, it is important to highlight that not all actors have the millions that Johansson has to litigate against the use of their image in lawsuits. That is why their union has stood firm on this point. Additionally, the actress’s legal actions could set an important precedent regarding the limitations that such apps and technologies must adhere to.
Ironically, one of Johansson’s most memorable roles in the last decade was portraying Samantha, who was the AI in the movie Her. In the film, she lends her voice to an operating system with which the main character develops a complex romantic relationship. While this narrative focuses more on the emotional impact of such decisions, it also raises financial and ethical questions about their use.
It will be interesting to see how events unfold and if the union uses this situation in its negotiations with studios, which continue to progress with cautious optimism but without clarity on how close a deal may be. For now, much like Sarah Connor, Scarlett will lead the legal battle against the machines, and for the greater good, we hope she emerges victorious.
Published by The USA Herald, a news and information agency.
