Scarlett Johansson Calls For Urgent AI Regulation After Fake Kanye West Video Spreads: 'Government Paralyzed'

A viral AI-generated video featuring Scarlett Johansson and other Jewish celebrities has reignited concerns over deepfake misuse, prompting the actress to call on lawmakers for urgent AI regulations.  

What Happened: The fabricated video circulating on social media shows an AI version of Johansson wearing a T-shirt with a Star of David and the word “Kanye,” referring to rapper Kanye West, written underneath, reported People.

It also features AI-generated versions of other Jewish celebrities, including Drake, Steven Spielberg, and Mark Zuckerberg, all appearing to oppose West. The video ends with an AI-generated Adam Sandler flipping off the camera while "Hava Nagila" plays.

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In a statement to the People, Johansson condemned the misuse of AI, regardless of its intent. She criticized U.S. lawmakers for failing to act, warning, "There is a 1,000-foot wave coming regarding AI… It is terrifying that the U.S. government is paralyzed when it comes to passing legislation."

Why It Matters: Johansson has been a repeated victim of AI misuse, previously threatening legal action over an unauthorized AI-generated ad in 2023. She also criticized OpenAI in 2024 for using a voice "eerily similar" to hers in ChatGPT's Sky assistant.

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Last year, fabricated images and voice alterations of public figures like Taylor Swift and former President Joe Biden were also widely shared.

On Tuesday, the U.S. and U.K. chose not to sign a global AI safety declaration at the AI Action Summit in Paris. About 60 nations, including China, India, and Germany, signed the non-binding pledge for AI to be "safe, secure, and trustworthy."

U.S. Vice President JD Vance, speaking at the summit, criticized “overly precautionary” AI rules, arguing they could hinder innovation.

Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of Benzinga Neuro and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.