Thousands of actors, artists call AI ‘major, unjust threat’

More than 11,000 actors and artists signed a statement labeling the unlicensed use of creative works for artificial intelligence training a “major unjust threat” to creators.

“The unlicensed use of creative works for training generative AI is a major, unjust threat to the livelihoods of the people behind those works, and must not be permitted,” the statement read.

This statement, which was also signed by directors, authors, singers, journalists and photographers, comes as creators have been locked in a months-long battle to increase industry protections from AI.

Last year, actors went on strike calling for more regulations to protect themselves against advancements in AI that can replicate performers’ voices, appearances and movements, which raised critical concerns about individuals’ control over their own likenesses.

SAG-AFTRA, a union representing roughly 160,000 media professionals, also asked for wage increases and boosts in compensation for streaming.

In November 2023, SAG-AFTRA released a summary of the union’s tentative agreement with the studios, which would allow members to be able to give their consent and be compensated for generative AI used to replicate their likeness.

A tentative deal from earlier this year with leading record labels includes protections for artists from the use of AI technology and, if ratified, would take effect immediately and span until the end of 2026.

Under the agreement, the terms “artist,” “singer,” and “royalty artist” will include only humans, the union said. Artists have raised concerns about how AI-generated music can be damaging due to its impersonation of human artists.

The deal also required “clear and conspicuous consent” and “minimum compensation requirements” before the release of sound recording that uses a digital replication of an artist’s voice, according to the union.

The deal also included increased minimums, health and retirement improvements, and an increase in the percentage of streaming revenue to be covered by contributions and other gains, according to the union’s statement.