Netflix used AI to put Gene Wilder's voice into a new reality show

Editor's take

Netflix has employed AI to synthesize Gene Wilder's voice for narration in its new reality series, *Selling Sunset*. This development bypasses the need for traditional voice actors by recreating the iconic timbre of the late actor.

The use of synthesized celebrity voices raises significant ethical and legal questions regarding intellectual property and the potential for misuse. It impacts the entertainment industry by introducing a new paradigm for voiceover work, potentially displacing human talent and raising concerns about posthumous representation. This move also highlights the increasing sophistication of AI in replicating human characteristics, pushing the boundaries of digital content creation.

Future implications include the establishment of clear guidelines and regulations surrounding AI-generated voices, particularly those mimicking deceased individuals. The industry will need to address how consent is obtained and managed, and whether this technology will be widely adopted for other projects or remain a niche application. The performance and reception of *Selling Sunset* will be a key indicator of public acceptance.