Los Angeles – Tilly Norwood, the latest addition to Hollywood’s talent pool, isn’t a human actress—she’s an entirely AI-generated character. Created by Dutch comedian and tech entrepreneur Eline Van der Velden’s studio Xicoia, Norwood has sparked a significant backlash in the entertainment industry. Despite her digital nature, talent agencies have shown interest in representing her, leading to widespread concern among human performers and unions.
Prominent figures like Emily Blunt, Whoopi Goldberg, and Sophie Turner have publicly criticized the move, expressing fears about the potential displacement of human actors. The Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) has condemned the use of synthetic performers, arguing that such practices threaten the livelihoods of real actors and undermine the authenticity of creative work. SAG-AFTRA emphasized that creativity should remain human-centered and that the development of AI characters like Norwood raises serious ethical and legal questions.
In response to the controversy, Van der Velden defended Norwood as a creative tool rather than a replacement for human talent. She likened the development of AI characters to the use of animation or CGI in filmmaking. However, critics argue that Norwood’s creation involves training on the unlicensed work of real actors, which they consider a form of intellectual theft. This has led to calls for stricter regulations and clearer consent protocols regarding the use of AI in the entertainment industry.
The debate over AI-generated performers like Tilly Norwood highlights the growing tension between technological innovation and the preservation of human artistry in Hollywood. As the industry grapples with these issues, the future of AI in entertainment remains uncertain, with many advocating for a balanced approach that respects both technological advancement and the rights of human creators.
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