An advertiser reportedly utilized a deepfake of actor Tom Hanks in a dental plan advertisement without his permission. Tom Hanks, known for his concerns about the impact of AI and deepfake technology, shared a warning on Instagram, distancing himself from the AI-generated video. Hanks has previously voiced the artistic and legal challenges posed by AI and deepfakes, emphasizing the potential for AI to create performances in perpetuity, even after an actor’s passing. The use of deepfake technology to capitalize on celebrities’ legacies has raised ethical concerns, with recent instances involving Anthony Bourdain and Robin Williams’ digital likenesses in media productions.
Key Points:
- An advertiser used a deepfake of Tom Hanks in a dental plan advertisement without obtaining the actor’s consent.
- Tom Hanks shared a warning on Instagram, clarifying that he had no involvement in the AI-generated video.
- Hanks has previously discussed the challenges posed by AI and deepfake technology, particularly regarding the potential for perpetuating performances after an actor’s passing.
- The use of AI to recreate celebrities’ likenesses has sparked ethical debates, with concerns raised about consent and the use of digital replicas in media.
- Robin Williams’ daughter, Zelda Williams, expressed support for the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) in their efforts against AI usage, highlighting the need to protect the likenesses of individuals who cannot provide consent.
