Title: SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher Calls for Stricter Regulation of AI in Hollywood
In a recent podcast episode of the strike series released by the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), President Fran Drescher raised concerns about the unregulated use of artificial intelligence (AI) in Hollywood. Drescher specifically highlighted the impact of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) on the industry, which has the potential to create entire scripts and digitally replicate actors, stunt performers, and background players.
One of the key issues raised by Drescher is the rise of “deep fakes,” where SAG-AFTRA members’ faces and voices are computer-generated without their consent and used in pornographic contexts. The guild has witnessed numerous instances where actors have fallen victim to these unauthorized manipulations, shattering their privacy and exploiting their likeness.
Drescher warns that the combination of Wall Street, greed, and technology could have dire consequences and needs to be handled with care. She stresses the importance of compensation and informed consent when using AI technology to replicate actors’ likeness, gestures, and voices. By ensuring fair payment and consent, the guild aims to safeguard the livelihoods of actors and prevent the dehumanization of the entertainment industry.
SAG-AFTRA has proposed several common-sense regulations that include informed consent and fair compensation for the use of digital replicas of actors. Drescher criticizes studio CEOs, labeling them as “megalomaniacs” and “tone deaf” to the needs of actors. The guild’s goal is to secure a larger share of the streaming revenue and pie, especially given the increasing importance of streaming platforms in the industry.
Additionally, SAG-AFTRA aims to establish a subscription-based residuals formula for streaming shows, allowing actors to benefit from the success of the platforms they perform on. Drescher hopes that the ongoing strikes will lead to a more employee-friendly culture in the industry and position SAG-AFTRA as the driving force behind the artistic endeavors of the entire entertainment industry.
As the discussions surrounding AI continue to evolve, Drescher’s call for increased regulation underscores the guild’s firm stance on protecting their members’ interests. With their proposals for fair compensation and consent, SAG-AFTRA seeks to ensure that actors remain an integral part of Hollywood and continue to contribute to the industry’s artistry.
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