Emily Blunt recently shared her concerns about the emergence of Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated actor, describing the technology as “terrifying.” During a conversation on the Variety Awards Circuit Podcast, Blunt confronted the reality of this digital creation and its implications for the entertainment industry, emphasizing the potential loss of genuine human connection. Her reaction highlights growing unease among traditional actors as artificial intelligence begins to take a role in their field.
Shocked Reaction to the Debut of a Digital Performer
Blunt was visibly surprised when introduced to Norwood’s image, an AI construct that has already begun attracting interest from talent representatives. She struggled to articulate her feelings, stating,
Does it disappoint me? I don’t know how to quite answer it, other than to say how terrifying this is.
Upon learning about the AI’s existence, Blunt exclaimed,
No, are you serious? That’s an AI? Good Lord, we’re screwed. That is really, really scary.
This response underscores the unsettled emotions many artists feel about AI’s advancement in their profession.
Warning Against Replacing Human Artists in Talent Agencies
Blunt urged agencies not to abandon human talent in favor of AI creations, pleading,
Come on, agencies, don’t do that. Please stop. Please stop taking away our human connection.
When told that Norwood was designed to be “the next Scarlett Johansson,” Blunt simply reminded listeners, “But we have Scarlett Johansson.” Her comments highlight the belief that AI should not replace the authenticity and individuality that human performers bring to the craft.
Background on Tilly Norwood and Industry Reactions
Tilly Norwood is the inaugural project of Xicoia, an AI talent venture launched by Eline Van der Velden. This initiative was formally introduced at the Zurich Summit during the Zurich Film Festival, with Van der Velden noting that several studios are pursuing similar AI projects, suggesting more announcements will follow soon. This development has ignited strong opposition from actors within the community.
Among the critics are Melissa Barrera, Kiersy Clemons, and Mara Wilson, who voiced their disapproval following the announcement. Barrera condemned the move in her Instagram Story, stating,
Hope all actors repped by the agent that does this, drop their a$$. How gross, read the room
Mara Wilson raised ethical questions about the creation process, asking,
What about the hundreds of living young women whose faces were composited together to make her? You couldn’t hire any of them?
These responses reflect broader concerns regarding the morality and impact of AI-generated actors replacing real performers.
Implications for the Future of Acting and AI Integration
The controversy surrounding Tilly Norwood spotlights the tension between technology and artistry as AI tools become more sophisticated. Emily Blunt’s emotional response and calls for preserving human connection underscore the urgency felt by many in the acting community. As studios and agencies consider adopting AI talent, this debate is likely to intensify, raising questions about both employment and ethical standards in the entertainment industry moving forward.
