Sean Penn opposes Hollywood studios’ AI likeness requests

Actor Sean Penn has voiced strong opposition to Hollywood studios’ requests for actors’ likenesses to be used in artificial intelligence (AI) projects.

In a recent interview, Penn expressed his concerns, stating, “I want your daughter’s,” emphasising the need to protect the privacy and rights of individuals, especially celebrities, in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI technology.

Hollywood studios have been increasingly interested in digitising actors’ likenesses for use in AI-driven projects, such as deepfake technology and virtual performances. While this can offer new creative possibilities, it also raises ethical questions regarding consent and control over one’s image.

Penn’s stance aligns with a growing movement among actors and public figures who are calling for stricter regulations and safeguards against the unauthorised use of their likenesses in AI applications. He argues that actors and their families should have the final say in how their images are utilised in AI, echoing concerns about potential misuse and the erosion of privacy.

As the debate over AI likeness rights intensifies, it remains to be seen how Hollywood studios and the wider entertainment industry will respond to these concerns.