Scarlett Johansson has initiated a lawsuit against a digital application accused of unlawfully exploiting her celebrity status and image for promotional purposes.
An advertisement surfaced on X/Twitter on October 28 for a product named Lisa AI: 90s Yearbook & Avatar, utilizing Johansson’s image. Variety, an entertainment magazine, examined the 22-second promotional video, which has since been removed online, noting that it began with archived footage of Johansson from the 2020 film ‘Black Widow’.
A representative for the star confirmed to Variety that Johansson has not endorsed the app as a spokesperson and did not give consent for her image to be used.
“We do not take these things lightly. Per our usual course of action in these circumstances, we will deal with it with all legal remedies that we will have,” said Kevin Yorn, Johansson’s lawyer, to Variety.
“What’s up, guys? It’s Scarlett and I want you to come with me,” Johansson reportedly says before a graphic covers her mouth, followed by AI-generated images of the actress appearing on the screen. “It’s not limited to avatars only. You can also create images with texts and even your AI videos. I think you shouldn’t miss it,” a fake imitation of Johansson’s voice says.
Subsequently, the ad transitions to a segment where Johansson’s likeness appears to vocalize a promotional message on behalf of the AI firm. This unauthorized use of Johansson’s image is particularly ironic given her role in the film ‘Her’ alongside Joaquin Phoenix, where she plays the voice of an AI system, highlighting the complexities and nuances of human-AI relationships.
Featured image: Credit: Gage Skidmore, Wikipedia
