Scarlett Johansson condemns AI-generated video of celebrities protesting Kanye West’s antisemitism
Johansson has been an outspoken critic of AI’s misuse, previously taking legal action against an AI company in 2023 for using her likeness in an advertisement and later accusing OpenAI in 2024 of replicating her voice from ‘Her’
| Feb 13, 2025, 21:54 IST
Scarlett Johansson has publicly condemned a viral AI-generated video featuring deepfake versions of herself and other celebrities protesting Kanye West’s recent antisemitic remarks. The video, which circulated widely online, depicted AI versions of Johansson, Jack Black, Mila Kunis, Drake, Steven Spielberg, and Adam Sandler wearing T-shirts emblazoned with the Star of David inside a middle-finger gesture, with the word “Kanye” underneath. The clip ended with the messages: “Enough is Enough” and “Join the Fight Against Antisemitism.
Scarlett Johansson has publicly condemned the unauthorized use of her likeness in an AI-generated video that portrays her and other Jewish celebrities protesting Kanye West's antisemitic actions. The video, created by Israeli AI expert Ori Bejerano, features over 20 celebrities wearing T-shirts displaying a middle finger with a Star of David and West's first name beneath it. The montage concludes with an AI-generated Adam Sandler making a provocative gesture, accompanied by the message "Enough Is Enough."
In a statement, Johansson, who is Jewish, expressed her zero tolerance for antisemitism and hate speech. She emphasized that the misuse of AI to amplify hate speech poses a significant threat, potentially greater than that of any individual. Johansson urged for the misuse of AI to be called out, regardless of its messaging, to prevent losing a grasp on reality. She also highlighted the broader implications of AI misuse, noting that while she has been a public victim, the threat of AI affects everyone. Johansson criticized the U.S. government's inaction in passing legislation to protect citizens against the dangers of AI and called for immediate bipartisan action to regulate its use.
This incident follows Kanye West's recent controversies, including attempts to sell swastika-emblazoned shirts and making antisemitic statements on social media. The AI-generated video was a response to these actions, aiming to denounce West's behavior. However, the use of AI to create fabricated representations of individuals without their consent has sparked significant ethical concerns.