July 3, 2024

Morgan Freeman Slams Viral Narration Video As AI “Scam”

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman recently addressed a viral TikTok video that misused his voice using artificial intelligence (AI). 

The video, which garnered significant attention, was created by a user named “Justine’s Camera Roll” and was later reshared on X (formerly known as Twitter) by “JahelisWasHere.” 

With 16.5 million views, the video falsely appeared to feature Freeman narrating a vacation clip. 

Freeman, however, took to X to clarify that he had no involvement and labeled the video a “scam.”

Viral AI Video Sparks Controversy

The controversial TikTok video starts with what seems to be Freeman’s voice saying, “Welcome to my niece’s day in the life, narrated by me, Morgan Freeman. Justine begged for money for what she said would be a cultural experience in Spain.” 

The voice continues narrating the 44-second clip, misleading viewers into believing it was the iconic actor himself.

Upon discovering the video, Freeman quickly debunked it on X, stating, “Thank you to my incredible fans for your vigilance and support in calling out the unauthorized use of an A.I. voice imitating me. Your dedication helps authenticity and integrity remain paramount. Grateful. #AI #scam #imitation #IdentityProtection.” 

TikToker Issues Apology

On July 1, 2024, the creator of the video, Justine, responded with an apology on TikTok. 

She explained that initially intended as a joke, the video had spiraled out of control once it went viral. 

“Why did I wake up this morning on Daily Mail? That is my face. When I posted this video on TikTok, it had maybe 30,000 views. Somebody took that, put it on Twitter, and it got 16 million views,” she said.

“I thought that it was very obvious that this was a joke, and now uncle Mo is upset with me. If anyone from his team is watching, I am so sorry. I really just thought it was funny, like, everybody loves the videos. We’re laughing, we’re joking. Please no cease and desist. Please no cease and desist. Use your discernment online, but this is all in good fun.”


Image Credit: Photo By Pascal Le Segretain/ Getty Images

Article Tags : , , , ,
Sara Keenan

Tech Reporter at POCIT. Following her master's degree in journalism, Sara cultivated a deep passion for writing and driving positive change for Black and Brown individuals across all areas of life. This passion expanded to include the experiences of Black and Brown people in tech thanks to her internship experience as an editorial assistant at a tech startup.