Matthew McConaughey Trademarks Himself to Combat AI Exploitation

Proactive Measures Against AI Misuse of Celebrity Likeness

Actor Matthew McConaughey has initiated trademark applications to shield his image from unauthorized use by AI firms, successfully securing approval for eight applications from the US Patent and Trademark Office. As reported by The Wall Street Journal, these trademarks encompass video and audio content showcasing McConaughey’s distinct expressions and speech, including a clip where he stands on a porch and the famous audio of his catchphrase “alright, alright, alright” from the film Dazed and Confused.

Legal Ambiguities and Preventative Actions

Although it is legally impermissible for companies to exploit someone's likeness for commercial gain without consent, McConaughey is taking steps ahead of the curve, reacting to the unclear guidelines surrounding AI and likeness rights. His attorney, Kevin Yorn, acknowledges the uncertainty in court rulings if these trademarks are contested. The expectation is that the looming threat of litigation might dissuade firms from using McConaughey's likeness in AI innovations without authorization. This defensive strategy mirrors broader efforts by actors to safeguard their identities from AI exploitation, an issue that gained prominence during labor union discussions between SAG-AFTRA and Hollywood producers in the 2023 strike.

Endorsing AI with Caution

Contrary to opposing AI, McConaughey is actively engaged in the field as an investor in ElevenLabs and collaborating with the AI firm to present a Spanish rendition of his newsletter. In communications with The Journal, McConaughey emphasized the importance of his approval for any use of his voice or image: “We aim to establish explicit boundaries where consent and recognition are foundational in an AI-driven environment,” he stated.