Japanese Anime Voice Actors Unite Against AI Voice Theft: “Our Voices Are Our Lives!” | Tech News

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A group of prominent Japanese anime and video game voice actors has formed “No More Unauthorized Generative AI” to fight against the unapproved use of their voices in AI technologies. Led by Ryūsei Nakao, they are raising awareness about the impact of AI voice replication on their livelihoods and seeking to protect their rights in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

In a dramatic stand against technology misusing their talents, some of Japan’s most beloved voice actors have united to fight the unauthorized use of their voices in artificial intelligence applications. They’ve formed a group called “No More Mudan Seisei AI” (No More Unauthorized Generative AI), and they’re not staying silent.

“Our Voices Are Being Stolen”

Ryūsei Nakao, the iconic voice behind characters like Freeza from Dragon Ball Z and Baikinman from Anpanman, took to YouTube to express his shock and anger. In a gripping 20-second video titled “Part 0,” he declared, “I was surprised that my voice was being sold without my permission. My voice is my livelihood and my life.” His heartfelt plea is resonating with fans and fellow actors alike.

Following Nakao’s emotional statement, 25 other top-tier voice actors joined him, including Yūki Kaji, Kōichi Yamadera, Daisuke Namikawa, Jun Fukuyama, and Romi Park. Together, they voiced the group’s name in unison, sending a powerful message to those exploiting their voices without consent.

An Artist’s Battle Against AI-Generated Voices

The group’s formation shines a spotlight on a growing problem in the entertainment industry: the unapproved use of performers’ voices by generative AI technologies. These technologies can mimic voices with uncanny accuracy, posing a threat to the rights and livelihoods of voice actors who have spent years honing their craft.

Interestingly, on October 7, talent agency Aoni Production announced a partnership with AI voice platform CoeFont. They’re creating AI-replicated voices using vocal data from 10 voice actors, including legends like Masako Nozawa and Banjō Ginga. These voices are intended for use in virtual assistants, medical devices, robots, and navigation systems, and will be available in multiple languages starting with English and Chinese.

However, the project is treading carefully. Acknowledging the potential risks, they’ve promised not to use the voice data for animations, dubbing, or similar works—areas where the original performers’ voices are irreplaceable.

Taking Matters into Their Own Hands

Voice actor Yūki Kaji isn’t waiting around for others to protect his voice. In April, he launched the Soyogi Fractal project through a crowdfunding campaign on Campfire. His goal? To give creators a legal way to use his voice for new stories and songs while safeguarding against illicit use.

The response was overwhelming. The campaign, which started with a goal of 10 million yen (about \$66,900 or roughly ₹5.55 lakh), ended up raising over three times that amount from 907 backers by May 31. It’s clear that fans and creators alike support efforts to protect the rights of these artists.

The unison of these voice actors under the banner of “No More Mudan Seisei AI” is more than just a protest—it’s a rallying cry for respect in the digital age. As technology advances, the lines between human and machine can blur, but these artists are standing firm. Their voices aren’t just sounds—they’re a part of their identity, their passion, and their livelihood.

 

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