Japanese voice actors are standing their ground against the unauthorized use of generative artificial intelligence (AI), and the danger it presents to the voice acting industry.
In a YouTube video uploaded on Wednesday, October 16, a group of prominent anime voice actors and actresses announced the launching of a new coalition against the unauthorized use of performer's voices by AI.
The new project is named “No More Unauthorized Generative AI” or “No More Mudan Seisei AI” in Japanese. Along with the launching of the group's social media accounts, came their Part 0 video featuring Ryusei Nakao.
Nakao, who voices Frieza in the Dragon Ball Z series, said in the 20-second video that his voice was being sold without his permission. He stressed that their voices are their livelihoods and lives.
The Dragon Ball Z voice actor isn't the only one battling this problem, as several voice actors also appealed to the public to hear out their thoughts and sentiments on the matter.
Despite the great benefits and perks of advancing technology, the rise of AI poses a threat amongst humans as it can easily replicate voices, allowing others to easily manipulate and use voices without the public peronality's permission.
According to the group, a discussion on the proper usage of these tools is a must, as it affects other people's work.
Along with Nakao, some of the participating actors also include voices from known anime shows like Attack on Titan and Cowboy Bebop.
Members of the said group will be releasing individual videos to express their personal take on the ongoing challenge, at a later date.
