Actors and filmmakers are buzzing about Tilly Norwood this week. But here’s the twist—she’s not a real person. Tilly is a computer-generated character, crafted through artificial intelligence.
While Tilly expresses excitement on her social media, many in Hollywood are uneasy. They’re worried that AI could take away jobs from real actors. The concern stems from a recent announcement that Tilly will be represented by a talent agency.
The Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) quickly responded, calling her a “character generated by a computer program trained on the work of countless professional performers.” This hits close to home for many actors. Just two years ago, they went on strike, advocating for protections against AI use in their industry.
SAG-AFTRA President Sean Astin emphasized the need for discussions around AI. He argues that creating new characters from existing work without permission is unfair. “They are taking our professional members’ work without compensation and acknowledgment,” he stated. Astin wants actors to have a say over how their likenesses are used.
Tilly’s creator, Eline Van der Velden from the London-based studio Xicoia, aims to show that AI is merely a tool for creativity. “I see it as a new paintbrush,” she said. Van der Velden’s team is also assisting estates of Hollywood stars, allowing them to appear as younger versions of themselves, blending nostalgia with technology.
Social media has seen mixed reactions. Some actors advocate for boycotting agencies that support Tilly. Melissa Barrera from “In the Heights” voiced her discontent, urging others to recognize the ethical implications.
AI’s role in entertainment isn’t a new concept. In 2024, the virtual character Hatsune Miku performed at Coachella, highlighting how digital entities are becoming commonplace. Companies like Lionsgate are exploring AI for storyboarding, while Netflix and Amazon have used it for visual effects.
However, there are looming concerns about copyright. Many creators worry that AI companies are using existing material to train their models without proper consent. In response, major studios like Disney and Universal have filed lawsuits against AI firms.
As the conversation continues, the future of AI in Hollywood remains uncertain. Will it enhance creativity or overshadow human talent? Only time will tell. For more on this ongoing debate about AI and its implications, check out industry insights from sources like Deadline.
