Story perspectives

Actors sue over AI microdramas; ByteDance tightens rules.

5/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

Actors and celebrities threaten legal action after AI microdramas used their likenesses permission, prompting ByteDance to tighten face-use rules.
Chinese firms uploaded 50,000 AI microdrama videos in March, costing roughly US$30 (S$38) per minute.
Production-company founder Mr Wang laid off live-action staff and now plans to blend AI footage with real actors.
Production executive Mr Hou predicts low-budget AI dramas will fade as viewers demand higher quality and tighter regulations.

1 of 1

Story summary

Actors and celebrities threaten legal action after AI microdramas used their likenesses permission, prompting ByteDance to tighten face-use rules.
Chinese firms uploaded 50,000 AI microdrama videos in March, costing roughly US$30 (S$38) per minute.
Production-company founder Mr Wang laid off live-action staff and now plans to blend AI footage with real actors.
Production executive Mr Hou predicts low-budget AI dramas will fade as viewers demand higher quality and tighter regulations.