AI-Generated George Carlin Special Sparks Backlash, Legal Action Possible

Kelly Carlin, daughter of the late comedian, condemns unauthorized use of her father's likeness by AI comedian Dudesy.

An AI-generated George Carlin “comedy special” on YouTube, created by Dudesy, has sparked backlash, including from the late comedian’s daughter, Kelly Carlin, who said the creators did not have permission from the Carlin estate.
Kelly Carlin has expressed that she is researching her options and consulting with lawyers regarding potential legal action.
The AI-generated special, titled “I’m Glad I’m Dead,” delves into topics like mass shootings, reality TV, and trans rights, and is delivered by a voice made to sound like the late comedian’s.
The creators of Dudesy, Will Sasso and Chad Kultgen, have previously been subject to legal threats from NFL player Tom Brady, who was the subject of a prior AI-generated fake by the team.
There are major concerns about AI encroaching on and exploiting actors’ likenesses, an issue that led to the longest actors strike in history.