CD Projekt, the publisher and developer of Cyberpunk 2077, has used artificial intelligence (AI) to recreate the voice of a deceased actor. The actor, Miłogost Reczek, provided the Polish-language voice for the character Viktor Vektor in the game but passed away in 2021. CD Projekt wanted to use the character in the game’s Phantom Liberty expansion but didn’t want to hire a new actor to imitate Reczek’s performance. Instead, they used AI voice cloning software called Respeecher to change the voice of a new actor and make it sound like Reczek was performing the lines. The company obtained permission from Reczek’s family before proceeding with the plan.
The use of AI in the entertainment industry has sparked controversy, as some actors are concerned about its potential to replace them and alter their performances without fair compensation. Last month, members of SAG-AFTRA, the labor union for American actors, voted in favor of potential video game strike action due to issues such as wages, protections against exploitative use of AI, and safety precautions. CD Projekt’s decision to use AI to recreate the voice of a deceased actor raises questions about the future use of AI in the entertainment industry and how it may impact the rights and livelihoods of actors.
CD Projekt’s use of AI to replicate the voice of Miłogost Reczek showcases the capabilities of this technology but also raises ethical concerns within the entertainment industry. While CD Projekt obtained permission from the actor’s family, this case raises questions about whether AI could potentially replace actors in the future or be used to manipulate their performances. The decision to use AI instead of hiring a new actor to imitate Reczek’s voice reflects the company’s desire to maintain the integrity of the character and honor the original performance. However, the use of AI in this manner highlights the ongoing debate regarding fair compensation and protection for actors in the age of advancing technology. This incident may contribute to continued discussions around the use of AI and its potential impact on the artistic and economic aspects of the entertainment industry.
