AI version of Marilyn Monroe

In the US, an AI version of Marilyn Monroe is capable of expressing emotions and conversing with humans in a voice similar to that of the movie star.

According to Hollywood Reporter on March 8th, a virtual Marilyn Monroe appeared on the screen at the South by Southwest conference in Austin, Texas. She wore a black turtleneck and sported her iconic platinum blonde pixie haircut. This was part of the Digital Marilyn project, a collaboration between the virtual reality company Soul Machine and Authentic Brands Group, an organization that manages the images of many deceased artists.

Dana Carpenter, vice president of entertainment at Authentic Brands Group, said Soul Machines has the technology to bring artists back in the age of AI.

"Marilyn Monroe cannot be replaced or copied, but this project will open up opportunities for generations of fans to interact with the late artist in a completely new way, while fostering a deeper connection and highlighting her enduring spiritual values and legacy," the representative added.

According to the producers, the virtual celebrity can "interact with fans in real time using advanced natural language processing technology, combining deep learning techniques and the GPT 3.5 model." This means she will speak in a pre-programmed voice, tell stories, express vivid emotions, and greet people like the real Marilyn Monroe.

In addition, Marilyn AI is also said to be able to read human emotions through the company's proprietary microphone and camera technology. She can analyze user preferences to adjust her responses accordingly, promoting a high level of personalization. According to the producers, the average duration of a conversation with the virtual artist is 20 minutes.

Greg Cross, CEO of Soul Machines, said the project introduced bio-AI technology to the public, allowing virtual characters to recreate the distinctive personalities of artists through engaging dialogue and emotional intelligence. Greg said the new invention is more than just nostalgia; it's a "glance" at the future of virtual interaction.

Besides Marilyn Monroe, Soul Machines has created virtual versions of celebrities such as Mark Tuan – the Korean-American singer, wrestler Francis Ngannou, and golf legend Jack Nicklaus. Users can message and chat with these characters through the company's platform.

Mark Tuan (left), Francis Ngannou (center), and Jack Nicklaus (right). Photo: Soul Machines — From left to right: Virtual versions of Mark Tuan - former member of K-pop group GOT7, Francis Ngannou, and Jack Nicklaus. Photo: *Soul Machines*

Digital Marilyn is still in development, and the company has not yet announced a release date. According to Variety , this is the latest project to realize the idea of "reviving" a deceased artist using AI technology. In 2023, Warner Music Group collaborated with the French film studio Seriously Happy to produce an animated biography of the singer of "La Vie en Rose," Edith Piaf, using AI technology. That same year, the Calm app also used artificial intelligence to mimic the voice of veteran actor Jimmy Stewart for its bedtime story reading feature.

Phuong Thao (according to The Hollywood Reporter, Variety )

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