French Actors Demand Action Against AI Exploitation

Berenice Bejo, Swan Arlaud, and Lea Drucker are among 4,000 French actors who have signed an open letter condemning the exploitation of artificial intelligence (AI) in the film industry. The letter, supported by Adami, a collective management organization for performers’ rights, describes the situation as an “organized plundering” of artists' work and calls for urgent political intervention. The signatories highlight ongoing issues with unauthorized voice cloning, image scraping, and undervalued AI licensing deals, asserting that these practices threaten the livelihoods and rights of performers.

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The letter emphasizes the detrimental impact of AI on the profession, stating, “This tool, extraordinarily valuable for certain professions, is also a devouring hydra for the artists that we are.” The actors recount a troubling incident where one performer was offered merely €250 to authorize the use of his image for an advertising campaign, which would replace two full days of filming. This situation exemplifies the pressure faced by lesser-known actors, who often lack the leverage to negotiate fair contracts, compelling them to relinquish their digital identities.

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The growing prevalence of unauthorized voice cloning has prompted legal actions, including a formal notice from eight French dubbers, who voiced concerns over AI companies VoiceDub and Fish Audio. They demanded the removal of all cloning models that exploit their voices and are seeking €20,000 in damages. The letter underscores that many artists feel coerced into signing contracts that jeopardize their future and image rights.

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As the European Union advances its AI Act, which aims to establish transparency requirements for generative AI systems, French actors are advocating for stronger national regulations. They argue that the current legislation does not adequately address the specific challenges posed by AI to performers' likenesses, biometric data, or voice cloning. The actors are urging lawmakers to ensure that AI can coexist with artistic work while respecting copyright and related rights.

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The open letter articulates a broader concern regarding the implications of AI on the nature of artistic creation. The signatories argue that the increasing commodification of their personal attributes—voice and image—reduces their work to mere digital assets. They express that this trend is not merely a fantasy but a reality that is unfolding, often at the expense of less established artists who cannot afford to reject exploitative contracts.

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As the 51st César Awards ceremony approaches, the signatories stress the importance of addressing these issues. They call on the political class to swiftly create a legal framework that protects artists' rights in the face of unregulated AI advancements. The actors assert that French cinema must embrace technological innovations while safeguarding its cultural heritage and the rights of the performers who contribute to it.

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• “systematic plundering is not a fantasy — it is happening here and now;” — Berenice Bejo, Actor

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• “It is unbearable, and it is happening right before our eyes.” — Lea Drucker, Actor

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• “We, as actors and actresses, are now urgently calling for ambitious regulations that will enable France to embrace this digital shift without sacrificing either its cultural heritage or the performers who embody it.” — Swan Arlaud, Actor

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