Hollywood Stars Condemn ’AI Actor’ Tilly Norwood, Sparking New Fears Over job Security
LOS ANGELES – A digitally created performer named Tilly Norwood is igniting outrage in Hollywood, with actors and unions voicing strong concerns over teh potential impact of artificial intelligence on their industry. The controversy stems from NorwoodS increasingly realistic presence on social media and recent reports detailing her creator’s plans to integrate AI talent into mainstream productions.
The use of AI in Hollywood has been a contentious issue, culminating in significant labor strikes in 2023 as writers and actors sought protections against the technology. SAG-AFTRA,the actors’ union,issued a statement warning agencies and studios that utilizing Norwood in projects could violate contractual agreements secured during those strikes. ”It doesn’t solve any ‘problem’ – it creates the problem of using stolen performances to put actors out of work, jeopardizing performer livelihoods and devaluing human artistry,” the union said.
Norwood’s existence gained wider attention this week following a report by Deadline on a summit held in Zurich where her creator,Van der velden,presented her AI production studio and new AI talent agency,Xicoia. Van der Velden reportedly suggested that Hollywood studios and agencies are quietly adopting AI technology and predicted announcements of high-profile projects utilizing it in the coming months.
Several prominent actresses have publicly condemned Norwood. natasha Lyonne (Poker Face, Orange Is the New Black, Russian Doll) called for a boycott of any talent agency working with the AI performer, stating, “Any talent agency that engages in this should be boycotted by all guilds.” Lyonne is currently developing a feature film using “ethical AI” that features real actors.
Emily Blunt,speaking on a Variety podcast,described Norwood as “terrifying,” saying,”That’s an AI? Good Lord,we’re screwed…Come on,agencies,don’t do that. Please stop. Please stop taking away our human connection.”
Comedian and actress Whoopi Goldberg, appearing on The View, expressed skepticism that AI creations would fully replace human actors, noting differences in movement and facial expressions. However, the concerns over job displacement remain central to the debate.
Norwood’s Instagram account has been active for months, showcasing her digitally rendered life and appearances. The controversy underscores the rapidly evolving landscape of AI and its potential to reshape the entertainment industry.
