Moshe Nussbaum, a veteran Israeli journalist, is making a powerful comeback. The 71-year-old, who lost his ability to speak clearly due to ALS, will return to Channel 12 News with the help of artificial intelligence.
Nussbaum, affectionately known as “Nussi,” was diagnosed with ALS two years ago. The disease weakened his muscles, making it difficult to move and speak. Despite his condition, Nussbaum vowed to continue reporting for as long as he could. However, his condition worsened, and he had to stop on-field reporting.
For over 40 years, Nussbaum covered Israel’s biggest stories. From wars in Gaza and Lebanon to political scandals and court cases, he became one of the most trusted voices in Israeli media. But during the 2023 Gaza war, he missed his first-ever conflict coverage due to his health.
Determined to stay in journalism, Nussbaum launched a segment interviewing injured soldiers from hospitals. His speech became slower and harder to understand, and he eventually reduced his on-air appearances.
This week, Channel 12 announced his return as a commentator using AI technology. The software recreates his voice by analyzing hours of his past broadcasts. Nussbaum will write his reports, and the AI will narrate them in his voice. The news channel will also adjust his lip movements to match the audio.
“It took a few moments to realize it was my voice,” Nussbaum shared with the Associated Press. “Slowly, I’m understanding how incredible this technology is for people with disabilities.”
The AI voice sounds strikingly like Nussbaum’s original tone — fast, sharp, and authoritative. In a preview shared by Channel 12, Nussbaum’s AI voice says, “This is my first time in the studio after more than a year. It feels strange, and it tugs my heart.”
Though thrilled by his comeback, Nussbaum is also cautious about AI misuse. He expressed concerns about deepfakes and fake news spreading through voice-cloning technology.
For now, Nussbaum’s AI persona will only be used for pre-recorded broadcasts. Live reporting remains a challenge. He will focus on crime and national security analysis, his areas of expertise.
Channel 12 did not disclose the name of the AI software.
Nussbaum’s return highlights the growing use of AI in helping people with speech disabilities. In the U.S., a congresswoman with Parkinson’s used similar technology to deliver a speech in Congress.
Despite the challenges of ALS, Nussbaum remains hopeful. He calls the AI software a “magic trick” and believes it will inspire others with disabilities.
“The fact that Channel 12 lets me reinvent myself is the best medicine I can get in my fight with this disease,” he said.
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