Meta Courts Celebrities for AI Voice Initiatives
Meta Platforms Inc. is offering lucrative deals to Hollywood celebrities like Judi Dench, Awkwafina, and Keegan-Michael Key to lend their voices to its artificial intelligence projects.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the tech giant is in a race against time to finalize these deals ahead of its Connect 2024 event in September, where it plans to showcase a suite of AI tools. These tools may include chatbots that mimic the voices of these celebrities, serving as digital assistants or virtual friends.
Negotiation challenges
Negotiations have been complex, with Meta and talent representatives often at an impasse over terms. Meta seeks extensive rights to use the voices over fixed terms for various applications, while the actors’ agents push for more restrictive terms. Despite these hurdles, Meta has reached an agreement with SAG-AFTRA, the primary union for actors, setting a precedent for the use of AI in entertainment.
Historical context and future plans
Previously, Meta experimented with text-based chatbots inspired by celebrities like Dwyane Wade and Paris Hilton, but those programs have since ended. The company’s AI studio, which allows content creators to develop personalized chatbots, marks its ongoing commitment to integrating AI with entertainment. The current focus on voice-based AI represents a significant advancement in Meta’s AI strategy, aiming to create more engaging and interactive user experiences.