Scarlett Johansson has spoken out about the “misuse” of AI technology after her likeness was used in a star-studded – and doctored – video slamming rapper Kanye West.
West – whose legal name is Ye – has recently come under fire following his days-long slew of racist and antisemitic comments. The star’s X (formerly Twitter) account was later deactivated.
After West’s comments made headlines, an AI-generated response video of Johansson and other Jewish celebrities, including Adam Sandler and David Schwimmer, wearing shirts with the middle finger printed on the front, circulated online.
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Now, Johansson has spoken out about being a “very public victim of AI”.
In a statement obtained by People, the Marvel actress said a video of her responding to an antisemitic view was brought to her attention by her friends and family.
“I am a Jewish woman who has no tolerance for antisemitism or hate speech of any kind,” she said in her statement.
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“But I also firmly believe that the potential for hate speech multiplied by AI is a far greater threat than any one person who takes accountability for it,” she continued.
The star urged: “We must call out the misuse of AI, no matter its messaging, or we risk losing a hold on reality.”
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Johansson’s statement then turned to call on the US Government to prioritise passing legislation limiting the use of AI technology.
The Avengers star said it “enormously affects the immediate future of humanity at large.”
“It is terrifying that the U.S. government is paralysed when it comes to passing legislation that protects all of its citizens against the imminent dangers of AI”.
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West has shared antisemitic comments in the past on social media. His accounts were restricted back in 2022 for violating community guidelines.
Along with his recent posts this month, the rapper was selling a swastika shirt on his Ye website, which Aussie actress Isla Fisher slammed in a social media statement.
West was also dropped by his talent agent.
Several other Jewish celebrities have spoken out in response to West’s antisemitism.
Friends actor David Schwimmer, who was featured in the same AI-generated video as Johansson, called out West’s “hate speech” on his Instagram.
“We can’t stop a deranged bigot from spewing hate filled, ignorant bile… but we CAN stop giving him a megaphone, Mr. Musk,” he directed to Elon Musk regarding West’s reach on X, which Musk owns.
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“His sick hate speech results in REAL LIFE violence against Jews,” Schwimmer claimed.
Singer Charlie Puth begged on his Instagram Story for West to stop with his comments.
“MILLIONS of people are influenced by you,” Puth wrote per The Hollywood Reporter.
”Please I BEG you to stop, PLEASE.”
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