The Netflix documentary, American Murder: Gabby Petito, has ignited debate surrounding its use of AI to recreate Gabby Petito’s voice. The three-part series recounts the tragic disappearance and murder of the travel vlogger in the summer of 2021, a case that captivated the nation and fueled widespread social media speculation. To narrate Petito’s journal entries, the filmmakers employed AI voice recreation technology, a decision that has drawn criticism and sparked ethical concerns.
This use of AI has prompted widespread discussion online. Many viewers expressed discomfort and questioned the ethics of using technology to replicate the voice of a deceased individual, particularly in such a sensitive context. Some felt it was disrespectful and exploitative, while others found it unsettling and “creepy.” The decision sparked numerous comments on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), with users voicing their concerns about the implications of this technology. Criticisms ranged from calling it “deeply uncomfortable” and “monstrous” to questioning the necessity and appropriateness of such a creative choice.
Despite the backlash, the documentary’s filmmakers defended their decision. They emphasized that they obtained permission from the Petito family and aimed to present her journal entries authentically, allowing viewers to “hear it through her own words.” Executive producer Michael Gasparro stated that they saw AI as a way to “bring her story to life” and tell it “as much through Gabby as possible.” He argued that Petito’s words were central to the narrative, and using AI allowed them to be conveyed directly.
The controversy surrounding American Murder: Gabby Petito mirrors a broader trend of unease surrounding the use of AI in film and entertainment. The use of AI to modify actors’ accents in the film The Brutalist similarly drew criticism, prompting the Academy to consider new disclosure rules for AI usage in movies. While voice actors frequently narrate the writings of historical figures, the use of AI to recreate the voice of a recently deceased individual in a true crime documentary creates a different dynamic, raising questions about authenticity, respect, and the potential for exploitation.
This case underscores the complex ethical considerations surrounding AI’s growing role in media production. As AI technology continues to advance, it is crucial to have open discussions about its ethical implications and establish clear guidelines for its responsible use, especially when dealing with sensitive subject matter like the Gabby Petito case.
