Tilly Norwood AI Performer Sparks Industry Backlash

Tilly Norwood is a digitally generated “actress” created by Eline van der Velden’s Particle 6/Xicoia using multiple AI systems, and released clips show a highly polished, reprogrammable performer able to cry, laugh and deliver lines. Her public output so far is limited—notably a short AI‑generated comedy clip—but film studios and talent agents have reportedly shown interest, including talks of representation and bidding. The unveiling has provoked sharp backlash from SAG‑AFTRA and many working actors, who say Tilly is a product trained on the work of real performers without permission or compensation and that synthetic talent could erase jobs. Critics also argue she reinforces narrow beauty standards, functions as a marketing exercise, and that her “obedience” could be used as leverage against lower‑paid actors and models, prompting calls to avoid conferring AI personhood. Van der Velden and supporters describe Tilly as a creative tool or “new paintbrush,” but the controversy highlights unresolved ethical, legal and labor questions about consent, compensation and the role of synthetic performers in entertainment.