*The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) is speaking out against reports that talent agencies are exploring representation for an artificial intelligence “actor” known as Tilly Norwood.
As NBC News reports, the union issued a statement declaring that Norwood “is not an actor, it’s a character generated by a computer program that was trained on the work of countless professional performers.”
According to SAG-AFTRA, the digital figure lacks the human qualities necessary for performance. “It has no life experience to draw from, no emotion and, from what we’ve seen, audiences aren’t interested in watching computer-generated content untethered from the human experience,” the group said. The union accused the AI project of “using stolen performances to put actors out of work, jeopardizing performer livelihoods and devaluing human artistry.”
The organization also cautioned producers about their legal responsibilities, emphasizing that they “should be aware that they may not use synthetic performers without complying with our contractual obligations, which generally require notice and bargaining whenever a synthetic performer is going to be used.”
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Tilly Norwood was created by Particle6 Productions, a company led by comedian and writer Eline Van der Velden, who expressed interest in casting the AI character in upcoming projects.
High-profile actors have joined the chorus of criticism, including Emily Blunt, Lukas Gage, Melissa Barrera, and Kiersey Clemons. On Monday, Whoopi Goldberg addressed the controversy at the start of “The View,” saying, “It’s a little bit of an unfair advantage. But you know what? Bring it on. Because you can always tell them from us.”
Had such a blast filming some screen tests recently ✨
Every day feels like a step closer to the big screen.
Can’t wait to share more with you all soon… what role do you see me in? #AIActress #AIart #AICommisoner #hollywoodactress pic.twitter.com/NF8LKAROE5
— Tilly Norwood (@TillyNorwood) October 1, 2025
Van der Velden defended her creation in a statement posted to Instagram, noting that she views “AI not as a replacement for people, but as a tool — a new paintbrush.”
She added, “AI characters should be judged as part of their own genre, on their own merits, rather than compared directly with human actors. Each form of art has its place, and each can be valued for what it uniquely brings.”
In 20 seconds I fought monsters, fled explosions, sold you a car, and nearly won an Oscar.
All in a day’s work… literally!
Find yourself an actress who can do it all. (hi ?) so, which tilly are you today????? #Showreel #AIActress #CastingCall $Tilly pic.twitter.com/mmUg4BvC1v
— Tilly Norwood (@TillyNorwood) September 28, 2025
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