IAMDDB Accuses Israeli Government of Using AI to Misappropriate Her Likeness

OPA WIRE, Oct 21 (OPA) — Manchester-based artist IAMDDB, born Diana Adelaide Rocha De Brito, issued a formal statement Monday denouncing the unauthorized use of her image in a government-backed social media campaign. The now-deleted video featured an AI-generated figure resembling the singer reciting lyrics regarding Israeli indigeneity. Activist Rafael Shimunov identified the source material as a 2018 promotional photograph of the artist, noting the digital avatar wore an outfit nearly identical to the one in the original shoot.

In her statement, IAMDDB explicitly denied any involvement in the video’s production or its messaging. "I want to make it absolutely clear that I did not authorise, approve, participate in or consent to my image being used in this video," she wrote. The artist further distanced herself from the content, stating, "I do not support genocide, the killing of innocent people, or the suffering of women, children or families." She confirmed she is currently seeking legal advice to protect her image rights.

The video, reportedly created by New Jersey-based director Eyal Be, was captioned "'GO BACK WHERE YOU CAME FROM!' We did." The incident has sparked broader discussions regarding the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in political propaganda. IAMDDB also addressed her past professional history in Israel, noting that her previous performances there occurred before she gained her current understanding of the regional conflict, and should not be interpreted as a political endorsement.

As the controversy continues to circulate online, the artist has reaffirmed her stance on the humanitarian crisis. She expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people, citing the "unimaginable suffering" they have endured. IAMDDB concluded her statement by emphasizing that her voice and likeness remain her own, and she intends to take appropriate steps to address the unauthorized appropriation of her identity.