Sam Altman reacts to OpenAI ouster: Calls it a 'weird experience'

Former CEO and co-founder of OpenAI, Sam Altman, has broken his silence after being ousted from the company, thanking supporters for their overwhelming show of affection amidst the unexpected turn of events.

In a statement shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Altman expressed gratitude for the love he received and described the day of his dismissal as peculiar, likening it to reading his own eulogy while still being alive. "The outpouring of love is awesome. One takeaway: go tell your friends how great you think they are," he urged.

i love you all.

today was a weird experience in many ways. but one unexpected one is that it has been sorta like reading your own eulogy while you’re still alive. the outpouring of love is awesome.

one takeaway: go tell your friends how great you think they are.

— Sam Altman (@sama) November 18, 2023

Altman, who had previously spearheaded the groundbreaking launch of ChatGPT just a year ago, was removed from his position by OpenAI citing issues of inconsistent communication and a loss of confidence in his leadership.

Addressing potential actions, Altman indicated, "If I start going off, the OpenAI board should go after me for the full value of my shares."

i loved my time at openai. it was transformative for me personally, and hopefully the world a little bit. most of all i loved working with such talented people.

will have more to say about what’s next later.

🫡

— Sam Altman (@sama) November 17, 2023

Greg Brockman, President of OpenAI, also announced his departure following Altman's dismissal, highlighting that they were informed about the decision through a Google Meet call.

OpenAI, in its statement, expressed the reasons behind Altman's removal, citing a lack of consistent candor in communications with the board, leading to a loss of confidence in his ability to lead the company effectively.

Altman, in reflections earlier in the day, conveyed his affection for the time spent at OpenAI and the remarkable impact it had, expressing admiration for the talented individuals he collaborated with.

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