AI Sparks Hollywood Debate: SAG-AFTRA Strikes Over AI Actors
AI has sparked a heated debate in Hollywood, with actors' union SAG-AFTRA striking in 2023 over concerns about AI-generated performers. The union condemned the rise of Tilly Norwood, an AI actress, fearing job losses and devaluation of human artistry. Meanwhile, AI advocates like Eline Van der Velden, creator of Tilly Norwood, view AI as a new tool for storytelling.
The controversy began when SAG-AFTRA went on strike, with AI being a key flashpoint. Actors demanded protections against their likenesses and performances being replicated without consent. Emily Blunt expressed concern about AI-generated performers, stating 'That is really, really scary'.
Eline Van der Velden, founder of AI talent studio Xicoia, hopes AI can be welcomed as part of the artistic family. She sees it opening doors to new voices and stories. However, SAG-AFTRA criticized the creation of Tilly Norwood, warning producers not to use synthetic performers without adhering to contractual obligations.
Whoopi Goldberg raised concerns about AI performers potentially having an unfair advantage, combining attributes of multiple actors. Tilly Norwood, the AI actress at the centre of the debate, was deemed not an actor by SAG-AFTRA, lacking life experience to draw from.
The AI debate in Hollywood continues, with actors' union SAG-AFTRA advocating for protections and fair compensation, while AI proponents like Eline Van der Velden view AI as a new tool for storytelling. As AI evolves, the industry must navigate these challenges to ensure a balanced and fair landscape for both human and AI performers.
