Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has officially shut down its controversial AI-generated profiles after facing significant public backlash. The AI-driven characters, which included fabricated personas like a dating coach, a businessman, and a “proud Black queer momma,” were accused of cultural appropriation and misrepresentation.
The project aimed to introduce AI-generated personalities to interact and create content on Meta platforms. However, users voiced strong opposition, leading Meta to cancel the initiative altogether.
Controversial AI Characters
Meta initially launched 28 AI profiles, including:
- “hellograndpabrian”: A retired textile businessman portrayed as a perpetual learner.
- “datingwithCarter”: A virtual dating coach offering advice.
- “himamaliv” (Liv): A self-described “proud Black queer momma of 2 & truth-teller.”
The latter drew particular criticism for allegedly appropriating racial and queer identities. Users reported frustration over the profiles’ responses, which some found mocking, and the inability to block the AI accounts. Meta cited a “bug” that prevented blocking as part of its decision to remove the profiles entirely.
A Pattern of Controversy
This isn’t the first time Meta has faced criticism for its AI projects. In 2024, the company abandoned a similar initiative involving celebrity-based AI accounts modeled after figures like Snoop Dogg, Chris Paul, and Dwyane Wade. The recent backlash further highlights the challenges of navigating ethics and user trust in AI development.
The Fallout
The decision to scrap the AI profiles reflects a growing demand for greater accountability in how AI is deployed on social platforms. While Meta aimed to innovate with these digital personas, the execution revealed gaps in understanding the nuances of representation, cultural sensitivity, and user concerns.
As Meta pivots from this setback, it faces mounting pressure to balance technological advancement with ethical responsibility.
