Serena Williams’ husband Alexis Ohanian recently made headlines by using AI technology to bring a picture with his late mother Anke to life. However, his actions were met with criticism from some who warned that creating ‘false memories’ with AI could have negative effects on his mental health.
On June 22, Ohanian shared a still picture and a video on X, showing a young boy Ohanian hugging his mother Anke. Using the AI tool Midjourney, Ohanian created a nine-second video that depicted how Anke may have hugged him at the time. In his post, Ohanian expressed his emotional response to the video, stating that he had rewatched it multiple times and was deeply moved by the experience.
Despite Ohanian’s intentions, many X users voiced their disapproval of his use of AI to recreate memories with his late mother. Some users cautioned Ohanian about the potential impact of false memories on his mental well-being, while others expressed concern about the authenticity of the AI-generated video.
Last year, Ohanian reflected on his mother’s tragic passing due to glioblastoma in 2008 and how he found solace in starting his family foundation. He shared that the foundation gave him a new perspective on the anniversary of his mother’s death and a sense of purpose that he believed his mother would have been proud of.
Today, Ohanian is happily married to tennis legend Serena Williams, and the couple are devoted parents to two daughters. Despite the challenges he has faced in his life, Ohanian continues to honor his mother’s memory and find meaning in his work and family life.
In conclusion, Alexis Ohanian’s use of AI to recreate memories with his late mother has sparked a conversation about the potential risks and benefits of such technology. While some may view it as a touching tribute, others caution against the potential consequences of altering or fabricating memories. Ultimately, Ohanian’s journey of healing and growth serves as a reminder of the power of love, resilience, and the importance of cherishing memories, both real and imagined.
