As the film industry continues its integration with artificial intelligence, an “AI actress” has been introduced to Hollywood for the first time. Xicoia, the studio founded by actress and entrepreneur Eline Van der Velden, has introduced Tilly Norwood, touted as the first AI “starlet.” This development has been met with enthusiasm among industry representatives but has drawn criticism from the acting community.

AI actress creates controversy

Eline Van der Velden states that Tilly Norwood, whom she describes as “the world’s first AI actress,” has already attracted the attention of Hollywood talent agencies. There are even rumors that Norwood may soon sign with a talent agency, just like a real actress.

An agency deal wouldn’t be surprising for Norwood, who already has a social media account and a large following. Being the first of its kind brings high interest to the character, and it’s expected that agents will be eager to capitalize on this interest.

Van der Velden notes that studio executives’ attitudes toward AI are rapidly changing. She says that the first people they met with about Tilly Norwood in February thought the project was pointless, but by May, genuine interest in the character had developed. This suggests that Hollywood studios are now more receptive to AI projects.

Predictably, this “AI actor” idea wasn’t accepted by other actors. Actors like Melissa Barrera, Kiersey Clemons, and Lukas Gage openly criticized the Tilly Norwood project through social media posts. Some actors even called for an organization within the industry to oppose the initiative.