Megan Thee Stallion has reportedly addressed a distressing situation involving a fake AI-generated sex tape of her that circulated online. On Saturday (8 June), multiple news outlets reported that a deepfake video, which falsely portrays the ‘Sweetest Pie’ artist in explicit scenarios, was crafted using sophisticated artificial intelligence to make it appear authentic.
By Saturday evening, Megan Thee Stallion, whose real name is Megan Jovon Ruth Pete, expressed her feelings about the situation on her X account. The 29-year-old artist posted, “It’s really sick how yall go out of the way to hurt me when you see me winning. Yall going too far, Fake ass s**t. Just know today was your last day playing with me and I mean it.” This statement has led many to believe that she was directly commenting on the deepfake controversy.
Fans quickly rallied around Megan, showing their support on her X post. One user encouraged her to take legal action, saying, “Please sue them, we’re begging. We tired of them playing on your name.” Others expressed their disbelief and disappointment at the situation, with comments like, “I’m so sorry that people are so f**king weird megan. just know we’re standing ten toes behind you no matter what. love you to the moon,” and “Exactly Megan they really do too much…I hope you sue these l0sers!!” Another fan emphasized their support, stating, “They deserve everything bad coming their way. We stand with you Megan.”
Later that day, Megan appeared visibly emotional during a performance in Tampa, Florida. An Instagram user captured the moment, noting she seemed close to tears while singing ‘Cobra’ from her third studio album. While the exact reason for her emotions was not clear, her fans continued their outpouring of love and support, propelling the hashtag #WeLoveYouMegan to trend on social media.
— Media Buzz (@mediabuzz0007) June 9, 2024
One X user remarked on the broader issue of celebrity privacy, stating, “I really need people to remember that celebrities are human just like everyone else. They have feelings too…they aren’t invincible. I can’t fathom being Megan & CONSTANTLY dealing w/ BS like this. Like my girl is strong, but she shouldn’t always have to be #WeLoveYouMegan.”
Megan Thee Stallion is not alone in experiencing the misuse of deepfake technology. Prominent figures like Taylor Swift, Gal Gadot, and Emma Watson have also been victims of this disturbing trend, where their likenesses are manipulated for explicit content, according to Prestige Online.
For anyone struggling or in crisis, resources are available through Mental Health America. You can call or text 988 to connect with a 24-hour crisis center or chat online at 988lifeline.org. Additionally, you can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.