Tilly Norwood, an AI‑generated persona promoted by Particle6, has ignited a heated discussion about the nature of synthetic actors. While the model’s creators tout her as a new type of cultural icon, industry professionals argue that labeling her an "actress" misleads audiences and threatens human performers. The controversy highlights broader concerns about anthropomorphizing AI, the blurring of reality in video content, and the ethical implications of using AI‑crafted characters in entertainment and advertising. Read more →

Tilly Norwood, a London‑based Instagram personality with about 40,000 followers, is not a real person but an AI‑generated character created by Xicoia, the AI division of production company Particle6. Founder Eline Van der Velden introduced Norwood at the Zurich Film Festival and is seeking an agent for the synthetic performer. The concept has sparked strong reactions, including a startled comment from actress Emily Blunt and a firm opposition from SAG‑AFTRA, which warned that synthetic performers threaten human artistry and livelihoods. Van der Velden defended Norwood as a piece of art, while industry unions call for contractual safeguards as AI tools like OpenAI’s Sora 2 advance. Read more →

The debut of Tilly Norwood, an AI‑created performer from Xicoia’s AI talent studio, has ignited fierce criticism from Hollywood actors and creators. Industry figures such as Emily Blunt and Whoopi Goldberg have called the move "really scary" and warned that AI actors cannot replicate the nuances of real human performance. Creator Eline Van der Velden defends Norwood as a work of art, urging that she be judged on her own merits. The controversy raises broader questions about AI’s role in film, streaming and the future of creative labor. Read more →