- A video featuring an AI representation of David Attenborough recounting the user’s life story gained widespread attention on X.
- According to Business Insider, Attenborough personally found the video unsettling, expressing concerns about the potential for deception through AI impersonation.
On Wednesday, a computer named Charlie Holtz uploaded a video showcasing an AI-generated simulation of David Attenborough narrating Holtz’s life story. The narration mimicked Attenborough’s distinctive voice and mannerisms, creating an impression of real-time storytelling.
While some viewers marveled at Holtz’s creation, the AI rendition faced criticism from a significant figure—the real David Attenborough himself.
“My persona is currently being emulated by David Attenborough.
Here is a GPT-4 interpretation + @elevenlabsio Python script for you to recreate Planet Earth in your own vision. twitter.com/desTwTM7RS
— November 15, 2023, Charlie Holtz ( @charliebholtenz )”
The authentic Sir David Attenborough conveyed his profound apprehension regarding the use of AI in an email exchange with Business Insider on Saturday.
The 97-year-old filmmaker, renowned for his acclaimed TV documentaries “Life on Earth” and “The Blue Planet,” expressed, “I find this deeply troubling that little consideration is given to the potential misuse of AI to fabricate versions of me without regard for my sentiments.”
Attenborough emphasized the critical issue of safeguarding against AI manipulation that could distort his message or misrepresent the vital environmental causes he has dedicated his life to advocating. He warned that the day when such deception becomes prevalent may be approaching rapidly.
Holtz disclosed the script used for his AI rendition of Attenborough alongside the viral video he shared online.
The video garnered over 3 million views, sparking interest in AI simulations. One user on X shared their desire to equip the AI-Attenborough with Meta Ray Bans to have it narrate their experiences in real-time while roaming New York City.
Another individual, Pietro Schirano, drew inspiration from Holtz’s work, presenting an AI-generated portrayal of Steve Jobs critiquing his inventions in a video released on Thursday.
When Business Insider reached out to Holtz for comment after hours, there was no immediate response.
