British actors campaign against AI use in the film industry

The Equity trade union for performing arts workers has launched in the United Kingdom a campaign “Stop AI Stealing the Show”. It aims to curb the role of technology in the entertainment industry.

Stop AI Stealing the Show.

We’re calling on a strengthening of performer’s rights across the board.

But we can’t do it without your support!

Visit 👉https://t.co/P2ebvwPUG2 pic.twitter.com/liUq8gyGx9

— Equity (@EquityUK) April 21, 2022

According to the organisation, in recent years the use of AI in the audio and audiovisual sectors has significantly expanded.

“From automated audiobooks to digital avatars of AI systems are currently replacing qualified professional performers, often because they are considered cheaper and more convenient,” Equity said.

Many artists working with artificial intelligence do not receive fair compensation and do not fully understand their rights before signing employment contracts.

Content creators can also use performers’ image or voice without their permission. The latter are often asked to sign non-disclosure agreements without providing full information about the work.

“We have witnessed the emergence of deepfake technology and its often sinister consequences,” Equity added.

The union urged the UK government to take steps to protect performers’ rights. The organisation believes that copyright law reform should ‘keep pace with technological development’.

In a statement to the BBC, government representatives said they want to regulate AI in a way that encourages innovation, “protecting people and our core values”.

“Our national strategy for artificial intelligence is designed for ten years to harness the opportunities of this technology, and in due course we will set out our approach to governing it,” the authorities stated.

In February, South Korean developers created a digital avatar of a presidential candidate to engage young voters in the elections.

In April 2021, a deepfake voiced the quotes of the late chef for a documentary.

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