The involuntary role: an actor faces his AI double
Dear Rémy,
As an actor whose voice has seemingly been hijacked by the specter of artificial intelligence, I find myself in a confusing and frankly infuriating scenario. Picture this: an animated tech unveiling, all eyes and ears on the debut of AI’s latest marvel – only for me to hear what sounds eerily like my own voice echoing back! It’s like attending a party you’re not invited to and finding out your clone is the surprise guest of honor.
You see, Rémy, I always believed that my voice was uniquely mine. I still remember the first time I received a comment about it: in my middle school drama class, my teacher described it as “sweet.” I was 10 years old and I had to ask them what that word meant. But when they did, I was thrilled. Since then, I have taken great pride in my instrument and consider it a resinous gem in my tool belt. Whether it was necessary to provide velvety whispers for a tense thriller or robust laughs for a heart-stopping comedy, he never let me down.
But now, thanks to the wonders of technology (and the evil tycoons behind it), I find myself living in my own sci-fi image. It’s dystopian to hear your own voice used by an AI, especially when it’s flirting outrageously with tech bros/legions of Silicon Valley nerds during a product unveiling.
I’m in an existential crisis. If an AI can mimic my emotional range, from jovial to melancholic to hungover, what’s left for us mere mortals? I always thought that if I saw robots take over in my lifetime, it would be to do our heavy lifting. Meanwhile, we humans could continue to create great art in our utopian, 100% self-sustaining homes. I never anticipated that the opposite would come true. I don’t think I could go back to waiting tables now, Remy, especially not in a world where customers might say, “Hey, you sound like my smart refrigerator!”
I’m joking, of course, but the problem remains: a chilling reminder of the fine line between technological progress and personal invasion. In this brave new world, one thing is clear: the need for guarantees in the age of digital mimicry is more pressing than ever. In the meantime, I will be here, adjusting my vocal cords, ready to reclaim my voice from the clutches of the code.
Dear Echoed Star,
First, let me just say that your letter struck a chord – or should I say, a voice note? It is disturbing to discover that your voice signature may have been recovered by technology. However, this could be a sign of an unexpected role: that of a lawyer.
Illustration by Russ Tudor
While the ethics and personal rights around AI are still largely unexplored, your unique position could help highlight the clear need for regulation. Why not take advantage of this experience to raise awareness? You have…
Discover more from The Times Of Update
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
