Voice Cloning and Generative AI

Image: Graham Lovelace

BRAVA Founder and CEO talked to writer and strategist, Graham Lovelace, last week with an article featured in Charting Gen AI - a newsletter that explores the latest developments in generative AI and its impacts on human-made media.

The newsletter reported the plight of voice actor, Gayanne Potter, whose voice has been cloned without her consent and used as an AI-generated announcer on Scotland’s rail network. Her lawyer Dr Mathilde Pavis, founder of digital replica advisory Replique, said Gayanne’s case was part of a “troubling pattern” of voiceover artists agreeing to lend their voices to AI projects only to later find they had been “cloned, commercialised and used far beyond what they agreed to”.

Melissa responded:

“We’re at a point where legislation, industry standards, and collective advocacy need to come together to safeguard creatives from this kind of exploitation. No one should have to find out that their voice is being used by an AI model, especially without their knowledge or permission.”

Melissa also echoed advice given by Mathilde in the report:

“With years of experience in the business I’ve learned not to sign contracts with vague or ambiguous terms. And when needed, I consult legal counsel to ensure I’m fully protected.”

Asked what advice she’d give to aspiring voice actors worried that AI might replace them, Melissa said: “Hone your craft, build relationships and focus on what makes you stand out from the crowd. AI will compete for low budget work, but there’s still plenty of opportunity for high-quality talent.”

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