tech
January 22, 2026
Scarlett Johansson and Cate Blanchett back campaign accusing AI firms of theft
Hundreds of writers, musicians and performers urge licensing deals instead of scraping creative work
TL;DR
- Approximately 800 creative professionals, including Scarlett Johansson and Cate Blanchett, are backing the "Stealing Isn't Innovation" campaign.
- The campaign accuses AI companies of using creators' work without authorization or regard for copyright law.
- Signatories are urging AI companies to pursue licensing deals and partnerships with creative industries.
- AI companies argue that using publicly available online material falls under "fair use".
- Dozens of lawsuits have been filed in the US over AI and copyright issues.
- Scarlett Johansson was notably involved when OpenAI used a voice resembling hers.
- The Human Artistry Campaign, backed by major industry unions, organized the initiative.
- The UK government is reviewing plans that would allow AI firms to use copyright-protected work unless artists opt out.
Continue reading the original article