Japanese acting union fights back against AI-generated voice use, proposing strict new guidelines, especially regarding the use of a deceased actor’s voice
The Japan Actors Union has introduced new guidelines and restrictions addressing the growing threat of AI-generated voice synthesis in the entertainment industry. The most significant rule bans replicating the voices of deceased actors unless they explicitly authorized such use during their lifetime.
These guidelines represent the union’s response to mounting concerns about exploitation through generative AI technology. As AI voice generation tools become increasingly sophisticated and accessible, entertainment professionals face the risk of unauthorized reproduction of their voices and likenesses.
A notable case illustrating these concerns involves voice actor Kenjiro Tsuda, known for roles in anime series Jujutsu Kaisen and Chainsaw Man. Tsuda pursued legal action against TikTok to remove AI-generated voice imitations from the platform, though the case resulted in an unfavorable outcome for the actor.
The union’s new rules acknowledge that technological advancement is inevitable while establishing clear boundaries for ethical use. The restrictions aim to protect industry professionals from exploitation without consent, particularly regarding posthumous use of their voices and likenesses.
These guidelines mark an important step in establishing legal and professional standards around AI voice technology within the Japanese entertainment industry, ensuring performers maintain control over their artistic identities.