Emily Blunt Warns of AI Actor Threat as SAG-AFTRA Condemns 'Tilly Norwood'

AI 'actress' Tilly Norwood sparks controversy. Emily Blunt and SAG-AFTRA warn of job displacement and loss of human artistry.

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2025 October 1 . 5:44 PM

1 min read

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Emily Blunt Warns of AI Actor Threat as SAG-AFTRA Condemns 'Tilly Norwood'

Emily Blunt has raised concerns about AI-generated actors, with the latest example being Tilly Norwood, an artificial personality causing a stir in the film industry. SAG-AFTRA, the actors' union, has condemned the rise of this AI 'actress', warning about potential job losses and devaluation of human artistry.

Tilly Norwood was developed by London-based Xicoia and unveiled at the Zurich Film Festival. Multiple talent agents have shown interest in signing this AI, but SAG-AFTRA has warned producers that they may not use synthetic performers without complying with their contractual obligations. The union has stated that 'Tilly Norwood' is not an actor and has no life experience to draw from, unlike human performers.

AI was a flashpoint in SAG-AFTRA's 2023 strike, with actors demanding protections against their likenesses and performances being replicated without consent. Emily Blunt echoed these concerns, saying 'That is really, really scary.' Eline Van der Velden, founder of AI-based production company Particle6, defended Tilly Norwood, stating that the AI is a new tool and not a replacement for human performers. Whoopi Goldberg also weighed in on the issue, discussing the unfair advantage AI actors could have, combining attributes of multiple human actors.

The debate around AI-generated actors continues, with concerns about job displacement and the value of human artistry. While some see AI as a new tool, others worry about the potential impact on the industry and are pushing for protections. As AI continues to advance, these discussions will likely remain a hot topic in the entertainment world.