Megumi Ogata, the veteran Japanese voice actor known for her work on Neon Genesis Evangelion, Danganronpa, and Persona, has publicly condemned the rise of AI voice cloning. In a recent interview with TBS News Dig, Ogata addressed the growing prevalence of AI imitators on social media platforms like TikTok.

"My voice is a part of my identity," Ogata said. "I really don't understand why somebody would want to make me say things that I don't want to say as they please and then sell it as my own voice. It's heartbreaking."

Ogata's comments arrive as the Japanese government explores a potential legal framework similar to existing likeness rights to curb unauthorized AI infringement. Ogata questioned why Japan, which she described as a "content superpower," has not yet established clear policies or rules regarding the use of AI in creative content.

The issue of AI voice cloning has become a significant point of concern within the gaming and voice acting industries, extending beyond professional studios to include modders and independent content creators. Ogata joins other notable industry figures in this stance, including:

  • Wes Johnson: Noted that creating mods using an actor's voice without consent is ethically wrong.
  • Jennifer Hale: Has been vocal about the need for studios to take responsibility for how they utilize AI.
  • Baldur's Gate 3 Cast: Multiple cast members, including narrator Amelia Tyler, publicly criticized AI voice cloning during the 2024 BAFTAs.

For players and content creators, this development highlights an ongoing friction between emerging AI tools and the rights of the performers whose voices are being replicated. While discussions often focus on corporate automation, actors have increasingly emphasized that the unauthorized use of their voices by amateur creators for digital content remains a primary concern.