The ethics of AI-Powered celebrity replications: a case study of “Digital Marilyn”

The Ethics of AI-Powered Celebrity Replications: A Case Study of “Digital Marilyn”

The use of AI in creating digital replicas of celebrities has sparked ethical debates, highlighted by the introduction of "Digital Marilyn," an AI chatbot resembling Marilyn Monroe. Concerns about consent and exploitation arise, especially when replicating deceased celebrities' likenesses without explicit permission.

Industry figures like Zelda Williams have criticized this trend, emphasizing the need for stronger protections against unauthorized use of AI clones of celebrities. "Digital Marilyn," developed by Soul Machines and presented at SXSW, showcases advanced capabilities in engaging conversations and emotional responses.

However, the absence of consent from deceased celebrities like Monroe raises ethical questions, contrasting with living individuals who presumably consent to their digital representations. The timing of the announcement, coinciding with International Women’s Day, adds further scrutiny to the exploitation of deceased female celebrities' likenesses.

This case underscores the ethical challenges in AI's role in celebrity representation, emphasizing the importance of addressing consent, exploitation, and responsible AI application in recreating public figures.