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SAG-AFTRA Rebukes AI ‘Actress’ Tilly Norwood as Agencies Weigh Representation

The union frames the project as unauthorized use of performers’ work under rules that now require notice and negotiation.

Overview

  • SAG-AFTRA issued a formal statement declaring Tilly Norwood “is not an actor,” alleging the software was trained on professional performances without permission or compensation.
  • The union warned signatory producers that deploying synthetic performers requires prior notification and bargaining under post‑2023 strike agreements.
  • Creator Eline van der Velden defended Tilly as a piece of digital art, said agencies have shown interest, and indicated a representation deal could be announced in the coming months.
  • Tilly debuted in the fully AI‑generated sketch AI Commissioner and maintains social profiles presenting her as an aspiring actress.
  • Actors including Emily Blunt, Whoopi Goldberg and Melissa Barrera denounced the project, citing risks to jobs, artistic authenticity and consent over training data.