Matthew McConaughey locks down ‘alright alright alright’ as AI fears grow

Matthew McConaughey has taken a decisive step to protect his voice and likeness in the age of artificial intelligence, securing a series of new trademarks aimed at preventing unauthorised AI use. The actor’s legal team has confirmed that the move is designed to give him stronger tools to challenge digital replicas that mimic his speech, expressions and recognisable catchphrases without permission.

Over the past several months, McConaughey’s lawyers have obtained eight trademarks covering audio and video elements closely associated with him. These include a sound mark for his iconic ‘alright alright alright’ line from Dazed and Confused, as well as short video and audio clips featuring his voice and mannerisms. The trademarks are intended to establish clear legal ownership, allowing McConaughey to take action if his likeness is reproduced through AI systems in ways he has not approved.

While many states already recognise rights of publicity, his legal team has pursued this strategy to strengthen his standing in federal court. Lawyers involved have said existing laws have not kept pace with rapid advances in generative technology, which can now convincingly replicate a person’s voice or image without selling a product directly. By securing trademarks, McConaughey gains additional leverage to challenge uses that may fall into grey legal areas.

The move comes as concern grows across Hollywood over AI misuse. Actors and creators have repeatedly warned that their work, voices and identities are being scraped and reused by technology companies without consent. Online reaction to McConaughey’s announcement has been largely supportive, with many praising him for being proactive rather than waiting for a high profile misuse to occur. Others pointed out that his approach could set a precedent for performers seeking to protect themselves as regulation struggles to keep up.

At the same time, McConaughey has made clear he is not rejecting AI outright. He recently partnered with an AI voice company to create a Spanish language version of his newsletter using an approved likeness of his voice. Supporters noted that this highlights the distinction between authorised collaboration and exploitation, a line many artists say is being ignored by some developers.

Social media discussion quickly widened beyond McConaughey himself, with fans and industry figures debating whether trademark law will become a key defence for celebrities. Some questioned whether similar protections should be extended to non famous individuals whose voices and faces are also vulnerable. Others argued that high profile actions like this increase pressure on lawmakers to update protections for everyone.