Skynet Killed the Voice Over Star
One of the top voice actors in the industry began a LinkedIn discussion focused on what the progression of AI meant for voice acting. The responses ranged from Pollyannaish (Nothing can replace the human element) to deep doomsaying (it won’t matter once Skynet kills us all). The reality lies somewhere in between “There’s nothing to worry about,” and “There’s a Terminator on the front porch.” But the cyborgs are coming, and right quick.
As yet, AI has not been able to replicate the inflection, emotion and “humanity” necessary to deliver a good voice over. To be sure, it can do well enough at this point to pass muster for the kind of work you might find on gig sites, or in small-town radio spots. But your Alexa can’t exactly imitate you..yet. The natural forward march of technology means she will probably be able to fool some of the people some of the time, and soon. Video is already at a point where “deepfakes” can do at least a passable job; it’s only logical that audio will follow.
I’m not suggesting you abandon all hope, start stockpiling canned goods, and make plans to rescue Sarah Connor. But I am telling you to accelerate your efforts. Make yourself indispensable. Demonstrate to clients that you’re a professional with sense of humor, emotion, SOUL. Separate yourself from the bots by adding personality to not only your work, but your auditions, your emails, and your marketing materials (for example: write nifty blog posts about how you’re a better alternative to AI.)
AI can do a lot, and will get better at more in a hurry. But you’re still the only you. Be the best you you can be. And if you get an email from a .Skynet domain, find Sarah Connor.