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Hollywood Union Criticizes AI-Generated Actress Debut
In a move that has stirred significant controversy, Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated actress, made her debut in September 2025. Her introduction has been met with criticism from the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), highlighting ongoing concerns about the impact of artificial intelligence on the film industry.
AI's Influence on Hollywood
The introduction of AI-generated characters has sparked a debate within Hollywood, particularly among actors and writers. The union, which represents 160,000 members across various talent sectors, has condemned the use of AI performers, expressing concern over the potential replacement of human actors and writers with computer-generated counterparts. The debut of Tilly Norwood has become a focal point in this discussion, symbolizing the broader implications of AI technology in the entertainment industry.
Background and Reaction
Tilly Norwood, described as having the look of an 'English rose', was created by Eline Van der Velden, a developer specializing in AI technology. Despite assurances from Van der Velden that there was no intention to replace human actors, the character's debut has faced negative reactions from both Hollywood stars and SAG-AFTRA. The union has previously secured protections against AI use in the industry, emphasizing the importance of consent and compensation for performers whose likenesses are used.
Union's Stance on AI Performers
SAG-AFTRA has been vocal in its opposition to the replacement of human performers with AI-generated characters. This stance was reinforced following the release of Tilly Norwood, as the union condemned the use of AI-generated content without the involvement or acknowledgment of real actors. The controversy surrounding Norwood's debut has reignited debates from the 2023 strikes, during which the union successfully negotiated protections against AI encroachments in the industry.
Implications for the Entertainment Industry
The introduction of AI-generated performers like Tilly Norwood raises critical questions about the future of the entertainment industry. While AI technology, such as de-aging processes, offers innovative opportunities for storytelling, the potential for AI to supplant human talent poses ethical and professional challenges. Hollywood's response to Norwood's debut reflects a broader skepticism towards AI projects, as stakeholders navigate the balance between technological advancement and preserving the roles of human artists.
"The advent of AI characters like Tilly Norwood is a pivotal moment for our industry, necessitating a thorough examination of how we value and protect human creativity and labor," stated a SAG-AFTRA spokesperson.
As the conversation around AI in Hollywood continues to evolve, the entertainment industry must address these concerns to ensure that technology enhances rather than diminishes the contributions of human talent.