Robin Williams' Daughter Reveals Shocking Stance on AI Replicas: Why It Deeply Troubles Her

Summary

AI technology in Hollywood raises ethical concerns, as it can recreate the performances of deceased actors without their consent.

Zelda Williams finds it deeply unsettling that there have been efforts to use AI models to replicate her late father's voice. The utilization of AI in the film industry presents obstacles for both deceased and living actors, as it undermines the human dedication and time invested in their performances.

Zelda Williams, the daughter of the late Robin Williams, has shared her opinions regarding the use of artificial intelligence to recreate performances of deceased actors. While studios have reached an agreement with the WGA on using AI for script development, this rapidly advancing technology also raises significant concerns for both living and deceased performers. SAG-AFTRA's ongoing strike action aims to establish clear and ethical guidelines for the use of AI, and any agreement reached with studios will likely set a standard for the future.

As an actress and SAG-AFTRA member, Williams recently took to Instagram to express her thoughts on using AI voices to recreate performances of actors who cannot provide consent. She acknowledges that her stance may not be impartial due to her involvement in SAG's fight against AI, and reveals that people have been attempting to train AI models to replicate her father's voice for years. However, she emphasizes that her concerns extend beyond personal experiences and stresses the importance of allowing living actors to deliver authentic performances. See her original post and comments below.

Why AI Will Continue To Play An Important Role In Hollywood Projects

I have a biased perspective in SAG's battle against AI. Throughout the years, I have witnessed numerous individuals expressing their desire to train these models in order to create or recreate actors who cannot give their consent, similar to my Dad. This issue is not merely theoretical; it is undeniably real. I have already encountered instances where AI was utilized to make his 'voice' utter whatever people desired. While personally unsettling, the consequences extend beyond my own emotions. Living actors deserve the opportunity to craft characters through their own choices, lend their voices to animated films, and invest their human effort and time into perfecting their performances. These recreations, at best, pale imitations of remarkable individuals, but at worst, they embody a terrifying, Frankenstein-like creation pieced together from the darkest aspects of this industry, instead of what it should truly represent.

Artificial intelligence, a technology that has rapidly outpaced people's ability to effectively regulate its use, has become the central topic of discussion in the movie-making industry. While some creatives view it as a dire threat, others recognize its potential to enhance the filmmaking process through powerful visual and auditory tools. Despite its potential, both the WGA and SAG-AFTRA have emphasized the urgent need to establish explicit guidelines regarding AI's ongoing use and development.

Some commentators dismiss the potential value of AI and call for a complete ban on the technology. However, it is likely too late for such a move to be considered practical. Studios like Lucasfilm are already using digital technology to recreate iconic voices and de-age actors. AI's Pandora's box has been opened, for better or worse.

Williams suggests that this evolving landscape is driven by nostalgia, but it raises ethical concerns. Disrespecting the wishes of artists like Robin Williams and impacting the careers of living actors are troubling implications. This issue is complex and sensitive, and it is hoped that SAG-AFTRA and studios can reach an agreement.

Source: Zelda Williams/Instagram