Particle.news
Download on the App Store
66 ARTICLES
·
2h ago

SAG-AFTRA Condemns AI 'Actress' Tilly Norwood, Warns Producers Over Use of Synthetics

The actors' union warned producers that using synthetic performers requires notice and bargaining under its contracts.

Image
Image: Particle6 TV
The artificially-generated "Tilly Norwood" (main). Inset, actor Frances Fisher holds a sign that says "AI is not art" at a rally by striking writers and actors outside Paramount studios in Los Angeles on Friday, July 14, 2023. (AI; AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)
Image

Overview

  • In a formal statement, SAG-AFTRA said Tilly Norwood is not an actor, alleging the character was trained on performances without permission or compensation and lacks human experience or emotion.
  • The union cautioned signatory producers that deploying synthetic performers triggers contractual obligations, including prior notice and bargaining.
  • Creator Eline Van der Velden defended Tilly as a creative artwork and a new tool, saying multiple agencies and studio executives have expressed interest, with any representation announcement described as months away.
  • High-profile figures such as Emily Blunt, Whoopi Goldberg, Melissa Barrera, Mara Wilson and Natasha Lyonne criticized the project, with some urging boycotts of agencies that sign AI talent.
  • Tilly was showcased at the Zurich Summit after months of social media posts and a short AI clip, reviving post‑strike concerns over consent, livelihoods and the broader push to use AI in cost‑constrained productions.