Tilly Norwood, an entirely AI-generated character, is making waves in Hollywood as she seeks representation from talent agencies. Created by Dutch producer and comedian Eline Van der Velden, founder of the pioneering artificial intelligence talent studio Xicoia, Tilly is being pitched as a new leading talent, akin to Scarlett Johansson. However, the character’s emergence has sparked a significant backlash within the film industry, bringing to the forefront the contentious role of AI in acting.
The Screen Actors Guild quickly responded to Tilly Norwood’s debut, asserting that creativity should remain firmly in the hands of humans. In a statement, they clarified that Tilly is not an actor but a digital construct generated through a program trained on the work of actual performers, without their consent or compensation. The guild emphasized that AI lacks emotional depth and life experiences that are essential in acting, asserting that audiences are likely to prefer performances grounded in human experiences.
Sean Astin, the recently elected president of SAG-AFTRA and actor known for his roles in “The Lord of the Rings,” expressed concerns over the originality of AI characters. He highlighted the necessity for giving credit to the real performers whose work AI often replicates without acknowledgment. Astin’s commentary underscored a wider industry concern regarding the implications of using AI in acting roles.
At the Zurich Summit, where she promoted Tilly, Van der Velden expressed excitement over potential agency interest, anticipating a future signing announcement. This prospect has alarmed many within Hollywood. Natasha Lyonne, star of “Russian Doll,” took to social media to advocate for a boycott of any talent agency that collaborates with AI actors, stressing the need for ethical considerations in utilizing artificial intelligence in film.
While AI tools have been utilized creatively in production, their characterization in prominent roles remains a heavily debated topic. The recent SAG-AFTRA strike included negotiations focusing on protections for actors regarding the use of their likenesses in digital formats. After a year-long struggle, a new contract was established for video game actors, ensuring employers must secure written consent for digital recreations.
Despite the controversy, Velden defended Tilly Norwood on social media, describing her creation as a form of art and imagination rather than a substitute for human actors. She viewed Tilly’s role as a creative dialogue starter, emphasizing that bringing such a character to life requires skill and dedication. Tilly’s Instagram account, which features posts of the character engaging in daily activities, has garnered over 33,000 followers, creating a buzz around her potential.
In a broader conversation, Astin remarked on the irreplaceable authenticity that human actors bring to their performances. He noted that AI could mimic emotional experiences but ultimately lacks the real-life context that informs and shapes genuine artistry. As discussions continue in the industry about the future of AI in entertainment, the core question persists: can artificial intelligence truly capture the depth of human emotion in storytelling?