An AI-generated actor, Tilly Norwood, has ignited controversy in Hollywood after her Dutch creators announced she is in talks with talent agencies. The virtual performer, designed to resemble a young, aspiring actress, posts headshots, comedy sketches, and advertisements on Instagram, portraying herself with “girl next door vibes.”
SAG-AFTRA Condemns AI Actor
The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) condemned the AI, stating, “Norwood is not an actor, it's a character generated by a computer program… It has no life experience to draw from, no emotion, and audiences aren’t interested in watching computer-generated content untethered from the human experience.”
Stars Speak Out Against AI Actor
High-profile actors also voiced concerns. Natasha Lyonne called for a boycott of any agency working with Norwood, labeling the project “deeply misguided & totally disturbed.” Emily Blunt described the AI as “terrifying” and urged agencies to protect human connection in acting. Whoopi Goldberg, while skeptical about AI stealing jobs, emphasized that audiences can distinguish humans from synthetic performers due to natural differences in movement and expression.
Dutch Creator Defends Tilly Norwood
Tilly Norwood was created by Dutch actor and comedian Eline Van der Velden, who aims for the AI to become the “next Scarlett Johansson.” Van der Velden stressed that Norwood is “not a replacement for a human being, but a creative work – a piece of art,” comparing it to crafting a fictional character rather than an actual performer. Her company, Particle6, and AI talent agency Xicoia, which she introduced at a Zurich summit, plan future projects integrating AI actors.
AI Sparks Industry Debate
AI in Hollywood has been a contentious issue, particularly during the 2023 writers’ and actors’ strikes, where industry professionals demanded protections against the use of AI in productions. SAG-AFTRA reiterated that using Norwood could breach agreements secured post-strike and devalue human artistry.
Instagram Presence Gains Attention
Norwood’s Instagram presence, including faux filming tests and spoofs of popular talk shows, has existed for months but drew heightened attention after reports on her Zurich summit appearance. Van der Velden hinted that Hollywood studios may quietly be exploring AI actors, with official announcements expected in the coming months.
SAG-AFTRA continues to monitor the situation, and major talent agencies have yet to publicly comment on potential collaborations with AI actors.
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