How to fix SORA Error "Oops, There Was an Error : Unexpected Nullish Null”?

Many users have recently reported getting an error message saying:
“Oops, there was an error ‘<unknown>: unexpected nullish null’”
when trying to generate images or videos using ChatGPT’s Sora or image generation tools.

How to fix SORA Error "Oops, There Was an Error <unknown>: Unexpected Nullish Null”?</unknown>

If you’re seeing this issue, you’re not alone. Let’s break down what it means, why it’s happening, and what you can do about it.

What Is the “Unexpected Nullish Null” Error?

This error usually appears when ChatGPT (or Sora) tries to process an image or video prompt but runs into a server or data conflict.
In simple terms, the app expects some information from the system but receives a blank or null value instead.

It can appear when you:

Tap “Generate” in a new project or image prompt.
Try to access your past projects or media library.
Upload an image containing people or faces (even AI-generated).
Use mobile browsers like Chrome or Safari to access the platform.

Why Is This Happening?

Based on user reports, there are several reasons behind this issue:

Server-Side Glitch:
This is the most common cause. When OpenAI’s servers experience high traffic or configuration errors, the system may return “unexpected nullish null.”
Overstrict Content Filters:
Recent updates have introduced tighter guardrails on image generation — especially for any content containing people, faces, or silhouettes.
Even harmless AI-generated images may get flagged as potential violations.
Prompt Length or Complexity:
Very long or complex prompts can trigger backend validation issues, especially if your description exceeds system token limits.
Account or Plan Limitations:
Some users have noticed that Plus plan accounts can’t upload certain image types, while Pro users can. This restriction might cause the same error.
Browser Cache Conflicts:
Cached session data or old cookies can sometimes interfere with the generation request.

How to Fix the “Unexpected Nullish Null” Error

Here are a few ways to troubleshoot the issue:

1. Refresh or Restart

Reload the page or restart your browser/app.
In most cases, the error is temporary and will resolve once the servers are stable again.

2. Clear Browser Cache

Go to your browser settings → Privacy → Clear cache and cookies.
Then log back into ChatGPT or Sora and retry.

3. Simplify Your Prompt

Try using shorter prompts or remove any unnecessary details.
Example: Instead of “Generate a cinematic portrait of two adults sitting in a park during sunset with detailed lighting and atmosphere”, try “Two adults sitting in a park during sunset.”

4. Avoid Uploading Real People

For now, avoid prompts or uploads that include human faces or bodies — even AI-generated ones.
These may trigger stricter content safety filters.

5. Try Another Browser or Device

Some users reported success switching from Chrome to Edge, or from mobile to desktop.
If using mobile, try the ChatGPT app instead of a browser.

6. Wait for an Official Fix

As this is likely a server-side bug, OpenAI engineers are expected to patch it in upcoming updates.
You can monitor OpenAI’s status page or community forums for updates.

What Users Are Saying

Many users have expressed frustration that this bug appeared suddenly:

“I keep getting the error on mobile when trying to open past projects.”
“It worked fine yesterday — now anything with a person in it fails.”
“This seems like a server problem, not a user issue. We just have to wait for Sora to fix it.”

Others noted that the censorship filters became stricter after a recent update, especially around December 2024.

Final Thoughts

The “Oops, there was an error ‘<unknown>: unexpected nullish null’” message is likely caused by a temporary backend or content moderation issue — not by anything wrong on your side.

For now, the best workaround is to simplify your prompt, avoid uploads containing human figures, clear your cache, or use a different browser. If the issue continues, keep an eye on OpenAI’s updates — a fix is likely on the way.

How to fix SORA Error “Oops, There Was an Error : Unexpected Nullish Null”?