Ebert tries out new ‘voice’ on Winfrey show
CHICAGO, USA (AP) — Film critic Roger Ebert tried out his new voice on The Oprah Winfrey Show as he made his Oscar predictions.
Ebert lost his ability to speak after surgery for cancer. But computer programmers at a Scottish company captured the sound of his voice from DVD movie commentary tracks.
The film critic can now type what he wants to say and listeners hear his voice. On the talk show which aired yesterday, Ebert says his voice needs improvement but at least it sounds like him.
Ebert’s Oscar picks include Sandra Bullock for best actress; Jeff Bridges for best actor; The Hurt Locker for best movie and its director, Kathryn Bigelow, for best director.
Ebert says he can’t remember a year when it seemed easier to predict the Oscars but admits “those may be famous last words”.