Esquire Singapore Faces Backlash Over AI-Generated Interview with Mackenyu
Esquire Singapore recently sparked controversy after utilizing artificial intelligence to conduct an interview with actor Mackenyu. The publication sought to feature the star of Netflix’s live-action One Piece adaptation, where he plays Roronoa Zoro, to build anticipation for the series' upcoming second season. However, due to scheduling conflicts that prevented an in-person session, the magazine opted to use an AI recreation of the actor generated by Claude to complete the piece.
Although the article was released in mid-March, the revelation only recently surfaced among the actor’s fanbase, triggering significant negative reactions. Neither Mackenyu nor his representatives have endorsed or promoted the content, which fans have widely criticized as an improper use of the actor's likeness. The situation has highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the ethics of using generative technology to simulate human subjects in journalism, especially when those subjects are unavailable for direct participation. As the backlash continues to grow, the publication remains under scrutiny for substituting a real interaction with an automated digital proxy.
Originally reported by kotaku.com.
By @kotaku
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