Hollywood panics as AI-generated actress makes debut
- Eline Van der Velden launched Xicoia, an AI talent studio, introducing Tilly Norwood as its first client.
- The introduction of Norwood has sparked backlash from actors and unions, including SAG-AFTRA, highlighting fears over AI replacing human talent.
- The situation reflects a broader anxiety within Hollywood about the future of the acting profession amid advancements in AI technology.
In the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry, a significant event took place at the Zurich Film Festival when Eline Van der Velden, the CEO of UK-based AI production company Particle6, unveiled a new AI talent studio named Xicoia. This announcement marked the debut of Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated avatar, which has since stirred notable controversy among working actors and industry insiders. Despite the excitement around Norwood from the studio, many in Hollywood perceive her emergence as a threat because of concerns regarding the future role of AI in acting. Just days after her introduction, the Screen Actors Guild, known as SAG-AFTRA, issued a statement vocalizing their opposition to the creation of synthetic talent, asserting the importance of human creativity in performance. As the AI landscape evolves, this backlash reflects deeper tensions about job security in the industry. The British actors' union, Equity, dismissed Norwood as merely an AI tool, further illustrating skepticism towards AI’s role in the arts. This rapid response from various quarters within the entertainment world showcases a community on edge, threatened by the potential replacements of human actors by AI avatars. The latest push in AI-generated talent raised questions about the viability of AI actresses competing with established human performers, with industry experts like producer Charlie Fink highlighting the challenges faced by AI entities like Norwood as they enter mainstream media. Meanwhile, Actors Emily Blunt, Melissa Barrera, and Whoopi Goldberg expressed their discomfort regarding AI in acting, voicing fears of losing “human connection” in performance art. Despite the stir caused by Norwood, industry professionals recognize the reality that AI may particularly threaten background and voice actors. Thus, while some celebrate the arrival of AI-driven innovations as new tools within the film industry, many actors see the situation in stark terms—an existential threat to their profession. Overall, the discourse generated by Tilly Norwood and the subsequent discussions surrounding her role in Hollywood highlight the contentious nature of AI in creative fields. As the film industry faces prolonged disruptions, the competition from regions like Texas, with its expanding film infrastructure, only compounds the challenge Hollywood faces in maintaining its traditional dominance. Continued vigilance will be necessary to navigate the shifting dynamics of this new chapter in the entertainment sector.