In Short:
Scarlett Johansson’s character Black Widow became a hero for the everyfan when she made a distinctive moment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by defying her captors in The Avengers. She later received her own movie which was released during the pandemic. Johansson sued Disney for breach of contract, settled the suit, and then called out OpenAI for using a voice similar to hers without permission, gaining public support as she takes on AI’s encroachment on human creativity.
The Rise of Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe
Black Widow, played by Scarlett Johansson, became a fan-favorite hero in the Marvel Cinematic Universe after a defining moment in the 2012 movie The Avengers. Her badassery in that scene resonated with audiences, setting the stage for her later prominence.
The Release of ‘Black Widow’
Black Widow, the standalone film featuring Scarlett Johansson, was released in theaters and on Disney+ in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. The dual release strategy sparked a legal battle between Johansson and Disney over breach of contract claims regarding the impact on box office revenue.
Settlement with Disney
Following the lawsuit, Scarlett Johansson and Disney reached a settlement, showcasing Johansson’s commitment to protecting her work’s value. The specifics of the settlement remain undisclosed, but it reinforced Johansson’s stance on defending her rights as an artist.
Confrontation with OpenAI
Johansson recently raised concerns about OpenAI’s use of her voice in their ChatGPT artificial intelligence interface. While OpenAI denies intentional resemblance to her voice, Johansson’s legal threats highlight the ongoing debate around AI ethics.
Public Support for Johansson
Johansson’s actions against OpenAI have garnered widespread public support, with many siding with her in the debate. Her stand against unauthorized use of her likeness has resonated with those wary of AI encroachment into personal identity.
Reflections on AI and Identity
The situation poses complex questions about the ethical boundaries of AI technology and the implications of replicating human voices without consent. Johansson’s advocacy has sparked discussions on privacy, consent, and the impact of AI on individual identity.
