Scarlett Johansson urges AI regulation after fake celebrity video spreads

The rise of AI-generated deepfake videos has created new challenges in combating hate speech and misinformation online. A recent incident involving Scarlett Johansson and other celebrities highlights the growing intersection of artificial intelligence, social media activism, and the fight against antisemitism.

The incident in focus: An AI-generated video featuring Scarlett Johansson and other prominent Jewish celebrities responding to Kanye West’s antisemitic remarks has sparked debate about AI regulation and content authenticity.

• The deepfake video showed Johansson and others wearing protest attire, set to the Jewish folk song “Hava Nagila”
• The video was created by Ori Bejerano, a self-described generative AI expert, who included a disclaimer about the AI-altered content
• Other celebrities featured in the video included Adam Levine, Mila Kunis, Lenny Kravitz, and Mark Zuckerberg

Johansson’s response: The actress has issued a strong statement condemning both antisemitism and the unauthorized use of AI technology.

• Johansson emphasized her stance against hate speech while expressing concern about AI’s potential to amplify harmful content
• She highlighted her previous experiences as a “public victim of AI,” including a dispute with OpenAI over synthetic voice usage
• The actress called for immediate U.S. government action to regulate AI technology

Broader context: The incident occurs amid increasing tensions over antisemitism on social media platforms and growing concerns about AI regulation.

• David Schwimmer separately appealed to Elon Musk to block Kanye West from X due to his antisemitic posts
• West’s Yeezy website recently had products removed by Shopify over controversial content
• The Tel Aviv Institute’s co-founder Hen Mazzig noted that while AI misuse is concerning, unchecked antisemitic hate speech poses an even greater threat

Looking ahead: Technology vs. accountability: This incident underscores the complex challenge of balancing technological innovation with social responsibility, as AI tools become more sophisticated and accessible while regulatory frameworks struggle to keep pace. The absence of comprehensive AI legislation in the United States, compared to other nations’ proactive approaches, suggests this issue will likely continue to generate controversy and calls for reform.