Highlights
- OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has publicly denied allegations of sexual abuse made by his sister Ann Altman. In a statement, Sam called the allegation “utterly untrue” and expressed concern for his sister’s well-being.
- Ann Altman accused Sam of sexually abusing her from 1997 to 2006 causing severe emotional distress, mental anguish and depression.
- The family detailed their efforts to support Ann and refuted her claims.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has publicly denied allegations of sexual abuse made by his sister, Ann Altman, in a recent lawsuit. In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Sam, along with his family, called the claims “utterly untrue” and expressed concern for Ann’s well-being.
What Are The Allegations?
Ann Altman, 30, has accused Sam of sexually abusing her from 1997 to 2006, beginning when she was just 3 years old. The lawsuit, filed on Monday, alleges that the abuse took place during their childhood in Missouri and continued until Ann was a minor, while Sam had become an adult. Ann has previously made similar accusations against her brother on social media.
The lawsuit claims that the alleged abuse caused Ann “severe emotional distress, mental anguish, and depression,” effects she continues to struggle with.
Sam Altman’s Response
My sister has filed a lawsuit against me. Here is a statement from my mom, brothers, and me: pic.twitter.com/Nve0yokTSX
— Sam Altman (@sama) January 7, 2025
In his statement shared on behalf of himself, his mother and his brother, Sam strongly refuted the allegations, calling them false and deeply hurtful.
“Our family loves Annie and is very concerned about her well-being. Caring for a family member who faces mental health challenges is incredibly difficult. We know many families facing similar struggles understand this well,” the statement begins.
The family detailed efforts they have made over the years to support Ann, including paying her bills, assisting with rent, covering medical expenses and offering to buy her a house. Despite these efforts, the statement claims Ann has repeatedly demanded more money.
“Annie has made deeply hurtful and entirely untrue claims about our family, and especially Sam. We’ve chosen not to respond publicly, out of respect for her privacy and our own. However, she has now taken legal action against Sam, and we feel we have no choice but to address this,” the family said.
Other Claims in the Lawsuit
The family also revealed that Ann has accused them of withholding their late father’s 401k funds, hacking her Wi-Fi and even “shadowbanning” her on platforms like ChatGPT and Twitter.
“The worst allegation she has made is that she was sexually abused by Sam as a child (she has also claimed instances of sexual abuse from others). Her claims have evolved drastically over time. Newly for this lawsuit, they now include allegations of incidents where Sam was over 18,” the statement reads.
The family described the situation as “immensely painful,” stating that Ann has refused conventional treatments and often lashes out at family members who try to help.
“This situation causes immense pain to our entire family. It is especially gut-wrenching when she refuses conventional treatment and lashes out at family members who are genuinely trying to help,” the statement concludes, reiterating that the allegations are “utterly untrue.”
The lawsuit has drawn significant attention with both parties standing firm in their positions. More developments are expected as the legal proceedings unfold.
FAQs
Q1: What are the allegations made by Ann Altman against Sam Altman?
Answer. Ann Altman accused Sam of sexually abusing her from 1997 to 2006, causing her severe emotional distress, mental anguish and depression.
Q2. How has Sam Altman responded to the allegations?
Answer. Sam Altman has publicly denied the allegations, calling them “utterly untrue” and expressing concern for Ann’s well-being.
Q3. What other claims has Ann Altman made in the lawsuit?
Answer. Ann has accused the family of withholding their late father’s 401k funds, hacking her Wi-Fi, and “shadowbanning” her on platforms like ChatGPT and Twitter.
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