Scarlett Johansson has spoken out against the dangers of artificial intelligence (AI) after a deepfake video surfaced online, falsely portraying her and other Jewish celebrities condemning Kanye West. The manipulated footage has reignited concerns about AI’s role in misinformation and identity theft.
The video, widely circulated on social media, features AI-generated versions of Johansson, David Schwimmer, Jerry Seinfeld, and other stars wearing T-shirts with a Star of David and a middle finger gesture above the word "Kanye." The clip ends with a call to "Join the Fight Against Antisemitism."
Scarlett Johansson warns against the dangers of AI manipulation, calling for stricter regulations to prevent misinformationGetty Images
Johansson, a vocal critic of AI exploitation, expressed her alarm at both the video’s content and the larger implications of AI manipulation. In a statement, she emphasised that while she stands firmly against antisemitism, the misuse of AI to fabricate messages even those with seemingly noble intentions poses a severe threat to reality.
“It has come to my attention that an AI-generated video using my likeness has been circulating online. As a Jewish woman, I do not tolerate antisemitism or hate speech in any form. However, the danger of AI fuelling misinformation is a crisis that extends beyond any one individual,” she stated.
The incident follows Kanye West’s recent controversy, including antisemitic remarks and the sale of T-shirts featuring swastikas on his website, which Shopify later removed due to policy violations. His actions have been widely condemned, but Johansson cautioned that AI-powered misinformation could exacerbate societal divides by distorting narratives and blurring the line between truth and fabrication.
Kanye West faces backlash over antisemitic remarks and controversial merchandise, fuelling debates on AI misinformationGetty Images
“This is not just about one person’s actions,” she added. “Unchecked AI usage is a global issue that demands urgent regulation. If we do not address it now, we risk losing our grip on reality.”
Johansson has previously challenged AI misuse, including legal action against companies using her likeness without consent. She joins a growing number of public figures calling for stronger AI legislation, warning that without safeguards, deepfakes could erode public trust and enable dangerous misinformation.
The controversy brings to light the urgent need for AI accountability as its influence grows in digital media. Johansson’s call to action puts the broader debate on AI ethics, urging lawmakers to take immediate steps to regulate its use before the technology spirals further out of control.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.