A recent artificial intelligence (AI) generated video meant to push back against Kanye West’s antisemitic remarks has drawn backlash—not for its message, but for its use of celebrity deepfakes without consent.
Among those criticizing the video is actress Scarlett Johansson, who has been vocal about AI’s misuse of personal likenesses, according to a February 12 report from Variety.
West recently sparked controversy by posting antisemitic content on X. His actions escalated when his clothing brand aired during the Super Bowl in Los Angeles. Soon after, nearly all items disappeared from his store, leaving only a single t-shirt featuring a swastika.
Did you know?
Subscribe - We publish new crypto explainer videos every week!
What is a Crypto Mining Pool? Is it Worth it? (Beginner-Friendly)
Israeli artist Ori Bejerano responded by creating an AI-generated video featuring deepfake versions of Jewish public figures, including Johansson, director Woody Allen, and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.
In the clip, they were depicted wearing white t-shirts, similar to the one West promoted, but with a Star of David and an offensive hand gesture aimed at the rapper.
However, the video quickly became controversial for another reason—none of the individuals portrayed had given permission for their likenesses to be used.
Johansson, who has spoken out against AI-generated impersonations before, condemned the video. She told Variety:
I am a Jewish woman who has no tolerance for antisemitism or hate speech of any kind. But I also firmly believe that the potential for hate speech multiplied by A.I. is a far greater threat than any one person who takes accountability for it.
Meanwhile, a new poster for Marvel’s upcoming Fantastic Four movie stirred backlash from fans. Why? Read the full story.
