OpenAI halts Sora generations featuring Martin Luther King Jr amid ethical concerns

OpenAI has suspended the use of Martin Luther King Jr’s likeness in its Sora video-generation platform after concerns were raised by the civil rights leader’s estate.

In a statement posted on X on 17 October, the company said it had worked together with The Estate of Martin Luther King, Jr, Inc (King, Inc) to ensure the late leader's image is treated with the respect it deserves. The decision came after reports surfaced that some users had produced “disrespectful depictions” of Martin Luther King using the AI tool.

OpenAI pauses use of Martin Luther King Jr.’s likeness in Sora

“At King, Inc.’s request, OpenAI has paused generations depicting Dr King as it strengthens guardrails for historical figures,” the company said in its post.

OpenAI, led by CEO Sam Altman, added that while there are “strong free speech interests” in portraying historical figures, it believes that public figures and their families “should ultimately have control over how their likeness is used.”

OpenAI said that authorised representatives or estate holders could request that their likeness not be used in Sora cameo generations. The company expressed gratitude to Dr Bernice A King, who acted on behalf of the King estate, as well as John Hope Bryant and the AI Ethics Council for fostering dialogue on ethical representation in AI.

The decision highlights the growing ethical debate surrounding the portrayal of historical and public figures through generative AI tools, as developers face increasing scrutiny over issues of consent, legacy, and digital likeness rights.

OpenAI introduces new updates for Sora

Meanwhile, OpenAI has introduced a fresh set of updates for its creative AI video-generation platform, Sora, expanding the features available to both Pro and standard users.

In a post shared on X on 16 October, the company announced that Pro users can now access “storyboards” directly via the composer on the Sora web platform. The new feature aims to simplify content planning and give creators a more visual and structured way to develop their stories.

What’s new in the Sora 2 update?

The Sora 2 update brings enhanced video generation options for all users. Standard users can now create videos lasting up to 15 seconds on both the app and web versions. Pro users gain extended flexibility, with the ability to produce videos of up to 25 seconds through the web platform.