French TV Show Canceled After Backlash Over AI Brad Pitt Spoofing Woman's Romance
French TV Show Pulled After Ridicule of Woman Who Fell for AI Brad Pitt
Source: The Guardian
Overview of the Situation
Scam Details
- A 53-year-old French woman, Anne, believed she was in a romantic relationship with Brad Pitt.
- She transferred approximately €830,000 (£700,000) to help "Pitt" with supposed medical expenses.
- The scam was linked to claims of cancer treatment and account issues during divorce proceedings with Angelina Jolie.
Online Backlash
- Following an interview on TF1's "Seven to Eight" show, Anne faced significant mockery on social media.
- The response included memes and jokes, prompting TF1 to withdraw the episode from their platforms.
- Notable entities, including Toulouse Football Club and Netflix France, also engaged in mocking her situation.
The Relationship That Wasn’t
Communication Dynamics
- Anne was contacted by someone posing as Jane Pitt, Brad Pitt's mother, who facilitated the initial connection.
- She spent over a year in daily communication with the scammer, who utilized AI technology to create convincing images and messages.
- During their interactions, the scammer expressed interest in Anne's work and personal life, fostering a false sense of connection.
Realization and Aftermath
- Anne discovered the deception when Brad Pitt was seen publicly with his actual partner, Inés de Ramon.
- She has since filed a police complaint regarding the scam.
- Anne expressed deep emotional harm and questioned why she was targeted by the scammers.
Conclusion
Impact of the Incident
- The incident sheds light on the dangers of online relationships and the increasing sophistication of scams involving artificial intelligence.
- Organizations and media outlets are urged to consider the emotional implications of exposing victims to public ridicule.
