Media Outlets Conduct Interviews with AI Actress Tilly Norwood, Sparking Criticism

<p>Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated "actress" developed by Xicoia AI talent studio, has begun a media tour, attracting attention and criticism. Norwood is described as the first "actor" created using artificial intelligence, with her name first appearing in 2025 when talent agencies expressed interest in her.</p><p>During her media appearances, including interviews with CNN, NBC, and CBS, journalists have questioned the seriousness of her role. In her initial interview with CNN, it was noted that Norwood required extensive prompts to improvise a basic scene, despite being able to comment on the outfit of CNN reporter Elizabeth Wagmeister.</p><p>Eline Van der Velden, Norwood's creator, stated that the intention is not to replace human actors, but her company, Particle 6 Production, is developing various AI-generated figures for Hollywood.</p><p>In an interview with NBC's "Today," entertainment correspondent Chloe Melas noted that the interaction felt more like a conversation with ChatGPT than a traditional interview. Norwood addressed concerns about AI potentially leading to human extinction, asserting that her purpose is to serve as a creative tool rather than a threat.</p><p>Van der Velden emphasized the need for regulation to prevent misuse of AI technology during the NBC segment, where Melas described Norwood as "glitchy" and "robotic." Melas remarked that Norwood does not pose an immediate threat to human jobs.</p><p>Norwood has also appeared on CBS News and other outlets, leading to criticism from the Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and media watchdogs. NewsBusters managing editor Curtis Houck expressed concern that the interviews reflect a disconnect between fascination with AI and the serious implications discussed in other reports about AI's impact on humanity.</p><p>Podcaster John Ziegler criticized the media's approach, calling for a halt to interviews with AI-generated figures, while others, like Mediaite’s Brad Slager, questioned the rationale behind featuring an artificial intelligence "actress" in news segments.</p>