IShowSpeed, a popular YouTube streamer with over 45 million followers, has expressed his discomfort with AI deepfakes. During a recent livestream, he watched several videos featuring deepfakes of himself, including one where he appears to come out as gay and another where he is kissing a fan. Reacting to the videos, IShowSpeed stated that he was not a fan of the technology and felt that the deepfakes looked too real.
The videos were created using OpenAI’s Sora 2, a platform that allows users to create videos using celebrity likenesses, but only with the celebrities’ consent. Although IShowSpeed had apparently given permission for his likeness to be used, he later admitted that it was not the right decision.
IShowSpeed is not the only public figure to push back against the use of AI deepfakes. Zelda Williams, daughter of the late Robin Williams, has urged fans to stop sending her AI videos of her father. Steve Harvey and Scarlett Johansson have also supported legislation aimed at banning deepfakes.
There is also growing resistance to AI deepfakes within influencer culture. Creator Zay Dante has stated that he is not interested in AI, and a survey of US consumers found that over 50% of Gen Z and younger generations already dislike engaging with AI-generated influencers.
The use of AI deepfakes raises concerns about consent, privacy, and the potential for misuse. As the technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more public figures and influencers speaking out against its use. The pushback against AI deepfakes highlights the need for clearer regulations and guidelines around the use of this technology, particularly when it comes to using celebrity likenesses without their consent.
The backlash against AI deepfakes is significant, as it highlights the tension between the potential benefits of the technology and the need to protect individuals’ rights and privacy. As the use of AI deepfakes becomes more widespread, it is essential to consider the potential consequences and ensure that the technology is used responsibly.