Artificial Intelligence (AI) pranks fans at the 2024 Met Gala
The 2024 Met Gala was notably missing pop superstars Katy Perry and Rihanna. However, technological advancements in artificial intelligence led many to believe the pair was at the star-studded affair. Elaborately constructed deepfake photos of the duo began to circulate on social media, some so convincing they fooled even Perry’s own mother.
Perry, known for her role as a judge on “American Idol”, took to Instagram to disprove these AI-constructed images. The singer posted two fake pictures, describing her reason for her absence: job commitments. With a sense of humor, Perry wrote, “Couldn’t make it to the MET, had to work.”
The AI-created allure: Perry’s deepfake photo
An AI-generated photo on Instagram featuring Katy Perry in a glorious floral gown attracted over 16 million viewers. Hailed simply as “Katy Perry. That’s it” by the user who posted it, the image seemed lifelike enough to trick millions, including Perry’s mother.
Sharing a screenshot of a text exchange with her mother, Perry revealed how easily deepfake photos can be mistaken for the real deal. Her mother, believing in the authenticity of the photo, complimented her daughter’s embellished attire, likening her to a float at the Rose Parade. Perry responded, warning her about the AI trickery: “lol mom the AI got you too, BEWARE!”
Perry’s stand against AI
The deepfake incident comes at a critical time when Perry has been vocal about her concerns regarding the use of artificial intelligence in pop culture. She was part of a congregation of over 200 artists who recently signed an open letter urging tech companies and digital music platforms to refrain from using AI in a manner that infringes upon artists’ rights.
Rihanna’s digital doppelganger circulates
Rihanna, a Met Gala regular, was also absent due to a bout of the flu. However, that didn’t stop digitally-altered photos of her from circulating. A picture of the Barbadian beauty, likely created using an AI tool, was circulating widely until its disclaimer was added: “This is an AI/digitally altered image of Rihanna. She did not arrive at the 2024 Met Gala wearing this dress.”
Conclusion: Beware of deepfakes
Although artificial intelligence has a multitude of beneficial applications, this incident underlines its potential misuse. The intricate deepfake images fooled millions of fans, bringing to the forefront the important discussion about ethical implications of AI.
As AI advances in complexity, the thin line distinguishing real from fake becomes more blurred. The disconcerting ease at which these fabricated images are mistaken for reality poses daunting challenges for digital trust and personal privacy.
In conclusion, the 2024 Met Gala was marked not only by the stunning display of fashion that typically characterizes the event but also by the discussion around the notable absence of Perry and Rihanna. Thanks to AI, their digital doppelgangers appeared instead, fueling an ongoing dialogue on the roll of AI in our lives.