OpenAI Halts Martin Luther King Jr. Video Generation Amid Backlash

NEW YORK — OpenAI has temporarily paused users’ ability to generate videos of Martin Luther King Jr. on its AI video tool, Sora, following backlash over what many have labeled ‘disrespectful depictions.’ The decision was announced on Thursday as a response to concerns raised by King’s family.

The company stated, ‘While there are strong free speech interests in depicting historical figures, we believe public figures and their families should ultimately have control over how their likeness is used.’ OpenAI emphasized that authorized representatives or estate owners can request that their likeness not be used in Sora cameos.

This policy change comes shortly after the release of Sora 2, which allows users to create lifelike videos featuring real and historical individuals. Critics argue that these AI tools contribute to the spread of misinformation and exploit the likenesses of deceased figures.

OpenAI expressed gratitude towards Dr. Bernice A. King, John Hope Bryant, and the AI Ethics Council for raising these concerns and fostering discussions on responsible AI use. Dr. King’s estate did not respond to requests for comment from CNN.

The recent controversies have sparked wider discussions about the ethical implications of using AI technology to depict historical figures without their consent.