The Controversy Surrounding AI Actor Tilly Norwood

The AI actor Tilly Norwood, created by Eline van der Velden, has sparked significant controversy and backlash since her introduction in a short comedy sketch titled "AI Commissioner" last autumn. Van der Velden, who founded the production company Particle6 and its AI division Xicoia, aimed to provoke discussion about the implications of artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry. Following her announcement that talent agents were interested in signing Norwood, prominent actors and unions, including Sag-Aftra and Equity, condemned the concept of AI performers.

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The backlash against Norwood has been intense, with Van der Velden reporting that she received death threats in response to her project. In an interview, she expressed surprise at the level of vitriol directed towards her, stating, “The death threats and the hate … my goodness, loads.” Despite the hostility, she acknowledged the fear surrounding AI's impact on the industry, asserting that her intention was to represent this change as an art piece. Van der Velden noted that the reaction was expected, as she sought to "shock the industry into understanding how far the technology had come."

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Van der Velden remains an advocate for the use of AI in the arts, suggesting that technology could benefit actors who prefer to avoid fame. She posits that avatars like Norwood could allow performers to maintain anonymity while still engaging in creative work. “It might actually be a blessing that they can have a digital twin,” she stated, emphasizing the potential for actors to control their digital representations through motion capture technology.

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Van der Velden has taken a hands-on approach in controlling Norwood's avatar, stating, “I’m the actor behind Tilly and she could play multiple different characters.” She highlighted the freedom this technology provides, allowing her to focus on the craft without the pressures of physical appearance. Although she has declined offers for Norwood to participate in traditional productions, she is developing a micro-drama and a full series featuring the AI character.

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In discussing the creation of Tilly Norwood, Van der Velden emphasized that the AI was developed using publicly available tools, making it difficult to trace specific data sources. She defended her use of these tools for artistic expression, stating, “I just think: OK, fine, it’s trained on all of our data, but I am allowed to use these tools to make art.”

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The introduction of AI actors has raised concerns among industry professionals about the potential displacement of human performers. Actors such as Melissa Barrera and Mara Wilson have publicly criticized the concept, with Emily Blunt expressing her apprehension by stating, “Good lord, we’re screwed.” The fear of AI replacing human talent has fueled ongoing debates within the entertainment community.

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While Van der Velden's project has garnered both support and criticism, the extent of the backlash and the specific nature of the threats she received remain unclear. Different sources report varying levels of concern among industry professionals, indicating a divide in opinions regarding the future of AI in entertainment.

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• “The death threats and the hate … my goodness, loads,” — Eline van der Velden, Creator of Tilly Norwood

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• “So yes, I wanted to make people sit up and go ‘holy moly’. So in a way I achieved my goal.” — Eline van der Velden

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• “I don’t have to get plastic surgery.” — Eline van der Velden

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• “Good lord, we’re screwed.” — Emily Blunt, Actor

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