(Los Angeles) A controversial podcast produced with artificial intelligence to imitate the American comedian George Carlin, dead since 2008, was the subject of an amicable agreement with his rights holders and was removed from the platforms.
Members of his family had filed a complaint against the two responsible for the “Dudesy” podcast. They published an episode with the comedian as a guest, using artificial intelligence (AI) to imitate his voice and the style of his jokes.
The podcast sparked controversy, particularly after the strike that paralyzed Hollywood last year and highlighted the threatening potential of AI for the creative industries.
“I am pleased that this matter was resolved quickly and amicably,” said the comedian’s daughter, Kelly Carlin. She said she was “grateful” to the two podcasters “for acting responsibly by quickly removing the video they had made. »
The terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
“I hope this case serves as a warning about the dangers posed by AI technologies and the need to put in place appropriate protections, not only for artists and creators, but also for all beings humans on the planet,” added Mme Pug.
Artificial intelligence is increasingly used in the entertainment industry to produce content.
This technology raises a lot of concern, because it sometimes draws on the work of artists without their consent or without paying them. She also poses moral problems, due to her ability to imitate dead people.
“This is not a problem that will disappear on its own,” insisted the lawyer for the comedian’s estate, Josh Schiller, recalling that AI made it possible to imitate the president’s voice. Joe Biden in a cold calling campaign, or generating fake photos of naked celebrities.
“This must be acted upon swiftly and vigorously in court, and AI software companies whose technology is used for questionable purposes must also bear some responsibility,” he added. in a press release.
The lawyer said he hoped the out-of-court settlement with the “Dudesy” podcast could serve “as a model for resolving similar disputes in the future.”
Its creators had already caused controversy last year, when they were threatened with legal action for making an episode with an AI-generated version of American football giant Tom Brady, without his permission.