Sam Altman’s sister accuses him of financial, sexual abuse; “untrue”, says OpenAI CEO

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, pictured above [File] | Photo Credit: REUTERS

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has denied allegations that he sexually abused his sister, calling all of her allegations of abuse against him and his family “untrue” while claiming that his sibling was experiencing mental health challenges.

Altman posted a note on the social media platform X on January 8, explaining that he was responding to a lawsuit his sister had filed against him.

In the lawsuit, Altman’s sister claimed that the abuse began when she was three and her brother was 12, with the sexual assault causing mental distress and depression, reported CNBC on January 7. Altman’s sister is active on X and has accused him publicly before. The sexual assaults took place between 1997 and 2006, per CNBC.

“All of these claims are utterly untrue,” said the OpenAI CEO in his response. “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.”

In the note, Altman claimed that his family had tried to support his sister with both financial aid and medical help, but said that his sister was demanding more money. The OpenAI CEO alleged that her claims of sexual abuse against him and claims of financial abuse and internet censorship against other family members was related to this.

“Over the years, she has accused members of our family of improperly withholding our father’s 401k funds, hacking her wifi, and “shadowbanning” her from various websites including ChatGPT, Twitter, and more,” stated Altman in the note.

“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,” said the statement.

The statement was signed by Altman, his brothers, and their mother.

Published – January 08, 2025 12:37 pm IST