Sam Altman accused by sister of sexual abuse, OpenAI CEO denies allegations

Sam Altman, the head honcho at OpenAI is facing serious allegations of sexual abuse.

His sister, Annie Altman, has filed a lawsuit in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri, accusing him of sexually abusing her during her childhood.  

The lawsuit alleges that the abuse began when Annie was three years old and continued until she was twelve.

The suit claims that Sam Altman, who would have been between the ages of 12 and 21 during this period, subjected his sister to "several times a week" of sexual abuse, starting with oral sex and escalating to acts of penetration.  

Annie Altman claims the abuse has had a profound and lasting impact on her mental health.

The lawsuit states that she suffers from severe depression, emotional distress, and significant mental anguish as a direct result of the alleged abuse. She seeks a jury trial and is demanding damages exceeding $75,000.  

Sam Altman and family respond

In a joint statement released on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Sam Altman, his mother Connie, and his brothers Max and Jack vehemently denied the allegations.

They acknowledged that Annie has been facing mental health challenges and stated that she has made similar accusations in the past.  

They detailed their extensive efforts to support Annie, including providing monthly financial support, covering expenses, assisting with employment, and offering medical help.

The statement read:

The family statement emphasized that Annie receives ongoing financial support from them but has continued to make demands for additional funds.

While expressing concern for Annie's well-being, the family maintained that the allegations are "deeply hurtful and entirely untrue."

They concluded by asking for understanding and compassion as they continue to support Annie in her journey towards stability and peace

Altman's legal troubles

This lawsuit adds another layer to the legal challenges facing Sam Altman.

In March 2024, Tesla CEO Elon Musk filed a lawsuit against Altman, alleging breach of contract and fiduciary duty related to their involvement in the founding of OpenAI.

Musk, an initial co-founder, left OpenAI in 2018, citing concerns about the company's evolving mission and its deviation from its original non-profit purpose.