SAG-AFTRA Condemns AI Actress Tilly Norwood Amid Hollywood Backlash

Eline Van der Velden, creator of AI-generated actress Tilly Norwood, has defended her creation as a new form of artistic expression rather than a replacement for human performers. Despite Van der Velden's assertion that AI can be a creative tool akin to animation or puppetry, her announcement that talent agents are interested in representing Tilly has sparked widespread backlash from Hollywood actors such as Melissa Barrera, Mara Wilson, and Kiersey Clemons. The actors' union SAG-AFTRA condemned the AI character, emphasizing that Tilly Norwood lacks life experience and emotion, and criticized the use of synthetic performers trained on unconsented work of real actors, which threatens to undermine human artistry and livelihoods. SAG-AFTRA also warned producers about contractual obligations when using synthetic performers. Van der Velden and her company Particle6, which launched the AI talent studio Xicoia, maintain that Norwood is a creative work intended to inspire conversation and expand storytelling possibilities, with agency representation expected soon. The controversy underscores ongoing tensions in the entertainment industry regarding AI's role and the protection of human performers' rights.