Voice Actor Rufus Beck, known for his work on the Harry Potter audiobooks, sees artificial intelligence as a competitor in his profession. In an interview, Beck expressed concerns that the use of AI-generated voices could replace human actors in the industry. However, he noted that AI lacks personality and emotional depth, making it a tool for conveying content rather than a substitute for human performance.
Beck, who has voiced numerous audiobooks, including the popular Harry Potter series, believes that human actors with unique voices and interpretations can still thrive in the industry. He cited his own success, saying that many fans listen to his audiobooks because of his distinctive voice.
Beck is currently working on an Audible original, “The Mysterious Crime in Styles” an adaptation of Agatha Christie’s first novel. He is also famous for his work on the Harry Potter audiobooks, which have been re-released in a new series. While he acknowledges the commercial success of the franchise, he notes that author J.K. Rowling could have ended the series earlier, but chose to continue the story with the son of Harry Potter, leading to the creation of a stage play in Hamburg.
Beck has not watched the Harry Potter films, as he was already committed to producing audiobooks by the time the first film was released. He believes that the controversy surrounding author J.K. Rowling, including her comments on trans issues, should not overshadow the work itself. He emphasized the importance of separating the artist from their work, citing the example of Richard Wagner, whose music is still widely appreciated despite his anti-Semitic views.
Beck believes that the Harry Potter series is a timeless classic, with a lasting impact on the literary world. He suggests that fans and critics should engage in a nuanced discussion about the author’s personal views, rather than judging the work as a whole.