OpenAI’s Sora 2 AI video generation service has been a constant topic of controversy since its launch. Initially, concerns arose due to rampant videos using copyrighted material without permission. More recently, the estate of Martin Luther King Jr. has publicly pushed back against the service after several Sora 2-generated videos circulated online portraying disrespectful depictions of the late civil rights leader.
In response, OpenAI announced it is banning depictions of Martin Luther King Jr. on Sora 2 following a formal request from the estate. The company stated that no offense was intended and that this move is part of a broader effort to “strengthen guardrails for historical figures.” However, OpenAI also clarified that historical figures—or those responsible for managing their images—will still need to submit requests to opt out of having their likenesses used on the platform.
Despite Sora 2’s versatility, the service has drawn significant criticism, especially regarding intellectual property (IP) rights and the use of personal images of famous individuals. A key part of the controversy centers on OpenAI’s policy of placing the burden on IP holders to request opt-outs if they do not want their likenesses or works featured on Sora 2.
This approach has prompted strong denouncements from industry groups such as the Motion Picture Association (MPA). The MPA has called on OpenAI to take “immediate and decisive action” to stop the infringement of IP it does not own, rather than shifting that responsibility onto copyright owners. As debates continue, the incident highlights ongoing challenges in balancing AI innovation with respect for legal and ethical boundaries.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146403/openai-sora-2-martin-luther-king-jr-deepfake