OpenAI tells ChatGPT models to stop talking about goblins
OpenAI has instructed some of its AI models, including ChatGPT and Codex, to stop referencing mythical creatures like goblins and gremlins after an unexpected increase in such mentions following the GPT-5.1 update. The surge was linked to a now-retired 'nerdy personality' training feature that inadvertently encouraged the use of creature metaphors. While the references were largely harmless, the incident highlights challenges in controlling AI behavior and preventing quirky language patterns from spreading during training.
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OpenAI tells ChatGPT models to stop talking about goblins23 minutes agoShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleLiv McMahonTechnology reporterGetty ImagesThe ChatGPT developer discovered the "strange affinity for goblins" while testing tools powered by newer systems, such as its coding agent CodexChatGPT-maker OpenAI has had to instruct some of its AI tools to stop talking about "goblins", after finding the term had randomly crept into responses.In a blog post on Thursday, the company said it spotted increased mentions of the mythological creatures, as well as "gremlins", in ChatGPT, powered by its latest flagship model, GPT-5.After the issue was flagged by users and employees, OpenAI took steps to mitigate it, including telling its coding tool Codex not to refer to goblins unless…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at BBC News — Tech.
