LOS ANGELES — George Carlin's estate has agreed to a settlement with a media company that sued over a fake one-hour comedy special that allegedly used artificial intelligence to recreate the late stand-up comic's style and material. did.
In a settlement agreement filed in federal court on Monday and a proposed order from both sides that awaits a judge's approval, podcast outlet Dudecy will permanently remove the special and remove Carlin's image, voice and likeness. I agree not to use it in the future without permission. EXPRESS WRITTEN ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF PROPERTY.
The proposed settlement satisfies the central demands laid out by Carlin Estate in the lawsuit filed on January 25th.
“We are grateful that the defendants acted responsibly, including swiftly deleting the videos they created,” Carlin's daughter Kelly Carlin said in a statement. “While it is absolutely unfortunate that something like this happened, this incident serves as a warning about the dangers posed by AI technology and the need for appropriate safeguards, not just for artists and creators, but for all humans on the planet. I hope so.”
George Carlin, one of the most influential stand-up comedians of the 20th century, passed away in 2008.
In the audio special, titled “George Carlin: Glad He's Dead,'' a cartoon composite provides commentary on current events. The Companion Dudessy Podcast Episode with Hosts Will Sasso and Chad Krutgen – The Company and the Two The men are the defendants in the case, and the clip was played and commented on by the men.
Mr. Krutgen and Mr. Sasso did not immediately return messages seeking comment.
At the beginning of the special, posted on YouTube on Jan. 9, a voiceover identifying the AI engine used by Dudesee listens to 50 years of material from the comic and “imitates his voice, rhythm, and demeanor as well.” I think he would be interested in this subject today. ”
The plaintiffs argue that if it was in fact made that way — and some listeners have questioned its stated origins — it would mean that Carlin's copyright was infringed. claims to mean.
The lawsuit is one of the first of a growing number of large-scale legal actions to combat the reuse of celebrity images and likenesses.
Karlin Estate attorney Joshua Schiller of Boies Schiller Flexner said in a statement that the settlement “will help resolve similar disputes in the future when artists and celebrities have their rights violated by AI technology.” “It's a blueprint.” Our goal is to quickly resolve this case and remove the disturbing video from the internet, preserving Mr. Carlin's legacy and highlighting the reputational and intellectual property threats posed by this emerging technology. was. ”
The AI issue became a major stalemate in resolving the Hollywood writers' and actors' strike last year.