Canadian Union Denounces AI Actress as ‘Lines of Code’

A Canadian actors union has condemned a new AI-generated actress. The creation, named Tilly Norwood, is being called “synthetic competition.” ACTRA issued a strong statement against the digital entity this week.

The union argues the AI is built from the work of human performers without their consent. This controversy highlights growing tensions between artists and artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry.

Union Leaders Decry AI Threat to Livelihoods and Art

ACTRA’s national executive director, Marie Kelly, was unequivocal in her rejection. She stated that Tilly’s existence is just “lines of code.” Kelly told The Hollywood Reporter that the AI is wrongfully based on human performance.

Kelly recently negotiated new AI protections for actors in a major labor agreement. She expressed deep concern for performers’ livelihoods. They now face synthetic rivals that do not contribute to society like humans.

Global Backlash Against the Digital Actress

The backlash is not confined to Canada. SAG-AFTRA, the American actors union, also opposes replacing humans with synthetics. This issue was a central point in their 2023 strike negotiations.

The UK’s Equity union has also condemned the Tilly Norwood project. An Equity organizer questioned the source of the performance data used to create the AI. They emphasized that Tilly is a tool, not a performer.

The debate arrives as Hollywood grapples with AI’s expanding role. The technology is already used for visual effects and de-aging actors. Many fear it could eventually replace human roles entirely.

The emergence of AI performers like Tilly Norwood represents a fundamental challenge to the creative arts. Industry unions are drawing a hard line against synthetic competition. This fight for the soul of performance is only just beginning.

Thought you’d like to know

What is Tilly Norwood?

Tilly Norwood is a digital character created entirely by artificial intelligence. She has her own Instagram presence and is being pitched as a virtual actress. Her creator is a Dutch comedian and content producer.

Why are actors’ unions concerned?

Unions fear AI performers will take jobs from human actors. They are also worried that these AIs are trained on the work of real performers without consent or compensation. This represents a direct threat to their members’ livelihoods.

Has AI been used in filmmaking before?

Yes, AI is already common for visual effects and de-aging actors. The current controversy is about AI creating entirely synthetic performers. This is seen as a new and more disruptive use of the technology.

What is ACTRA demanding?

ACTRA is calling for strong government laws to regulate AI. The union wants specific protections for moral rights and performers’ likenesses. They argue that without swift action, it may soon be too late to curb negative impacts.

Could an AI actor get an agent?

The creator of Tilly Norwood has reportedly spoken to Hollywood talent agencies. This has amplified concerns within the acting community. Unions firmly reject the idea of representing synthetic entities.