OpenAI did not intentionally copy Scarlett Johansson's voice for Sky

From Verizon Media: 2024-05-23 00:12:47

OpenAI did not intentionally seek a Scarlett Johansson voice-alike for Sky. They looked for actors with warm and charismatic voices last year, but didn’t mention Johansson specifically. The company chose actors interested in AI, with Mira Murati making the decisions. Altman wasn’t heavily involved in the process.

Sky’s voice naturally sounded like Johansson’s, so no modifications were made. Johansson was approached to voice ChatGPT but declined, later accusing OpenAI of using her likeness for Sky. OpenAI paused using Sky’s voice out of respect, after receiving complaints from Johansson’s legal counsel.

Despite similarities, Sky’s voice actress claims she never sounded like Johansson. Johansson was contacted by Altman in 2023 to voice ChatGPT, but declined. Sky’s voice has been part of ChatGPT, with the introduction of GPT-4o sparking more comparisons to Johansson’s voice. OpenAI has paused using Sky’s voice in response to Johansson’s concerns.



Read more at Verizon Media: OpenAI didn’t intend to copy Scarlett Johansson’s voice, ‘The Washington Post’ reports