Actor Matthew McConaughey has taken steps to safeguard his likeness and voice against unauthorized use by artificial intelligence platforms.
His commercial foundation, the Just Keep Livin Foundation, which he co-founded with his wife Camila, has filed video and audio recordings with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, according to public records.
The move comes amid growing concern from entertainers over AI-generated content that can mimic their appearances or voices without permission.
While some U.S. states have introduced laws to address harmful AI applications, these measures typically focus on malicious intent or commercial exploitation rather than protecting artists from AI-driven impersonation. Notable exceptions include Tennessee’s ELVIS Act, which specifically provides safeguards against AI-generated cloning for performers.
McConaughey’s legal approach is relatively novel. Unlike cases where actors have had to pursue lawsuits—such as Scarlett Johansson’s 2023 action against the AI avatar app Lisa AI—he is proactively securing rights for his image and voice.
The actor, known for roles in “Interstellar” and “Dallas Buyers Club,” has also invested in ElevenLabs, a company specializing in AI voice modeling. With his consent, the firm has produced AI-generated audio versions of his voice.
Attorney Kevin Yorn, representing McConaughey, emphasized that the filings are meant “to make sure that our clients have the same kind of protections that their businesses have.” He added that the initiative also ensures artists can “capture some of the value that is being created with this new technology using their voice and likeness.”
