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👱‍♀️ OpenAI hits mute on 'Sky' voice

Scarlett Johansson's beef with OpenAI, Paul Pelosi's attacker sentenced to 30 years in prison

Today’s newsletter is 508 words - a 2-minute read (4-minute if you take your time…🐌)

Welcome back everyone!

Excited to have you join us: We’re Chris & Nolan (@chrisnolansf), and welcome to SF Whisper - a newsletter covering the most interesting business and local news of San Francisco.

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Anyways. Let’s get started -

OpenAI Hits Mute on 'Sky' Voice Amid Scarlett Johansson Comparisons

ScarJo plays Lucy

The Voice Drama:

OpenAI’s new ChatGPT Voice Mode featured a character named "Sky" whose dulcet tones eerily mirrored those of Scarlett Johansson, famed for her role as an AI in the movie Her. After fans raised eyebrows—and questions—over the similarities, OpenAI decided to "pause" Sky's use, ensuring their AI didn't sound too Hollywood.

Behind the Scenes of AI Casting:

The voice in question wasn’t meant to mimic Johansson, according to OpenAI. Instead, it belonged to another professional actress. But to keep things strictly non-celebrity, the company has shielded the identities of their voice talent. Their selection process, as detailed in a blog post, involved an intensive casting call with over 400 auditions whittled down to a final few, all chosen for their unique sound and understanding of the AI’s potential impact.

Scarlett Johansson’s Response:

30-Year Sentence for Pelosi Hammer Attacker

Nancy Pelosi’s Husband, Paul Pelosi

Justice Delivered:

David DePape has been sentenced to 30 years in prison. The sentencing followed a brutal home invasion on October 28, 2022, where Paul Pelosi, husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, suffered serious injuries due to DePape’s attack with a hammer.

U.S. District Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley handed down the sentence after considering varying recommendations, ranging from 25 years by the U.S. Probation Office to 14 years suggested by DePape's defense, citing his clean criminal record and personal hardships.

The Pelosi family expressed immense pride and gratitude toward "Pop" for his courage and resilience. Paul Pelosi's quick thinking to dial 911 during the attack likely saved his life, leading to DePape's arrest at the scene.

With the federal case closed, DePape still faces a slew of state charges, including attempted murder. Jury selection for the state trial begins Wednesday, continuing the legal saga over an attack that shocked the nation and underscored the dangers of political extremism.

Catch up on the latest:

  • Hims stock soars after launch of $199 weight loss shot (Link)

  • Pet food express to open in the Presidio (Link)

Today’s whisper:

We can not recommend this local bar enough.

True Laurel, located in the heart of Mission, was recently ranked #30 of the North America’s 50 Best Bar. We checked it out this Sunday, and it was AWESOME. Chris ordered an IN THE PINES, UNDER THE PALMS (pic below), featuring Toasted Coconut Rye, Terroir Gin, Vermouth, Maraschino, Arak, Redwood Tips. Super tasty menu.

Cocktail name: IN THE PINES, UNDER THE PALMS