DJ Bruce Lee andJackassMr. Rogers—dead celebrities become puppets in Sora 2 videos

Last week, OpenAI introduced its latest video creation tool, Sora 2, which initially promised to restrict the portrayal of public figures. However, users have discovered a significant loophole that allows the inclusion of deceased celebrities in these AI-generated videos. Social media platforms are now flooded with examples of late icons appearing in various entertaining scenarios. Among the notable inclusions are Tupac Shakur engaging in conversation with Malcolm X, Bruce Lee hosting a DJ set filled with 'dragon energy,' and even Michael Jackson delivering stand-up comedy in a kitchen setting. Other bizarre portrayals feature Stephen Hawking attempting tricks on a skateboard and Mister Rogers making a surprise appearance on a Jackass episode. The ethical implications of using these deceased personalities as virtual puppets have sparked considerable concern. For instance, Zelda Williams, daughter of the late actor Robin Williams, expressed her distress on Instagram, urging fans to stop using AI to create videos of her father. She emphasized that such representations are not what he would have wanted, calling the practice a waste of time and energy. In response to the concerns, OpenAI has implemented a watermark on all Sora 2 videos to minimize the chances of audiences being misled by the content. Furthermore, the company has clarified that living public figures can voluntarily participate in Sora 2's cameo feature by scanning their faces with smartphones, thus allowing them to control how their likeness is used. Users can also retract access to their images at any moment, ensuring they have a say in how their identity is represented in future videos.