Scarlett Johansson says OpenAI copied 'Her' voice

Scarlett Johansson has issued a statement after OpenAI pulled a controversial ChatGPT voice, 'Sky,' over claims it imitated her. 'Sky' was intended to allow ChatGPT to communicate via speech, one of several voice options. Criticism and mockery arose over its similarity to Johansson, even prompting a skit by her husband, Colin Jost, on Saturday Night Live.

Many believed the voice referenced Johansson’s role in the film Her, where she plays a virtual assistant. Johansson revealed she was approached by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in September to lend her voice to the system, aiming to bridge the gap between tech and creatives and make AI more comforting to consumers.

OpenAI has denied that 'Sky' was meant to mimic Johansson, stating the voice was created with independent casting directors and producers. They said the voices were selected from over 400 submissions from voice and screen actors.