OpenAI has paused the ability to generate images of Dr Martin Luther King Jr in its Sora video generation tool after users created disrespectful depictions of the civil rights leader.
The Estate of Martin Luther King, Jr, Inc. (King, Inc.) and OpenAI worked together to address how Dr King’s likeness is represented in Sora generations. At King, Inc.’s request, OpenAI has paused generations depicting Dr King as it strengthens guardrails for historical figures.
OpenAI stated that, while there are strong free speech interests in depicting historical figures, the company believes public figures and their families should ultimately have control over how their likeness is used. Authorised representatives or estate owners can request that their likeness not be used in Sora cameos.
The decision sparked immediate debate on social media, with critics arguing that giving estates permanent veto rights over historical figures contradicts public domain principles. Others questioned why only prominent public figures and their families receive protection from AI-generated deepfakes, whilst ordinary individuals remain vulnerable to misuse of their likeness.
Some users raised concerns about the practical implications of the policy, questioning how OpenAI would manage likeness requests if extended to all individuals and determine which historical figures warrant special treatment.
