Japanese voice actor sues TikTok over AI voice cloning
Japanese voice actor Kenjiro Tsuda sued TikTok in September 2026 claiming the platform hosted videos featuring an AI-generated clone of his distinctive voice without permission. Tsuda sought removal of the videos and damages for infringement of his publicity rights, while TikTok argued the voice was generic and similarity was subjective. A verdict was expected on September 30, 2026.
What happened
Kenjiro Tsuda, a voice actor known for roles in Jujutsu Kaisen and Yu-Gi-Oh!, filed a lawsuit against TikTok over videos featuring an AI-generated clone of his voice. An anonymous TikTok account posted videos with images resembling a Jujutsu Kaisen character and narration that Tsuda claims is an artificial imitation of his distinctive baritone. The account accumulated over 200,000 subscribers and reportedly generated upwards of 500,000 yen in monthly revenue.
Reported impact
Tsuda demands that TikTok remove the videos and argues that the account gained popularity primarily because its content was narrated by his recognizable voice. Tsuda's legal team contends this infringes his publicity rightsβthe ability to control and profit from aspects of his identity. The Japan Actors Union expressed concern that the animation industry could be harmed if similar voice-cloning practices continue unchecked.
Index analysis
TikTok argues in court records that the voice is a generic male voice and that any similarity to Tsuda's is subjective. The platform claims it is not responsible for the content posted by the anonymous account user.
Governance controls
The Japan Actors Union launched a campaign called "No More" against using generative AI to mimic performers without permission, signaling industry-wide concern about voice-cloning practices.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.