In a statement released on Friday, SAG-AFTRA expressed remorse regarding the AI-generated graphic depictions of Taylor Swift that circulated widely on X (formerly Online) this year, denouncing the images as “disturbing, dangerous, and highly troubling.”
The union advocated for backing Congressman Joe Morelle’s Controlling Deepfakes of Intimate Images Act to combat this phenomenon, emphasizing that “the creation and dissemination of fabricated visuals, especially those of a sexual nature, should be criminalized.” They emphasized the need for immediate action, stating, “As a nation, we have the capability to regulate these technologies, but we must take a stand now before it becomes irreparable. We stand in solidarity with Taylor and all women who have suffered violations of their privacy and autonomy in this manner.”
This incident sparked widespread discussions this year regarding the necessity for enhanced safeguards against artificial intelligence and image manipulation, both online and in legislative circles. One particular AI-generated image of a music icon remained accessible for approximately 17 days, garnering 45 million views before its removal.
During a press briefing on Friday, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre described the images as “disturbing,” urging social media platforms to enforce stricter content moderation policies. Jean-Pierre also called for legislative action by Congress to enact protective measures.
“We are deeply troubled by the reports of the proliferation of manipulated images, specifically deepfake visuals,” Jean-Pierre remarked. “We believe that social media companies bear a significant responsibility in upholding their content guidelines to curb the dissemination of false information, despite the complexities of content governance. Legislative action is imperative to address these challenges.”
Taylor Swift is not the sole individual, famous or ordinary, who has been targeted by AI-generated explicit imagery without consent. While Swift’s supporters have been vocal in demanding increased protections against such infringements, as highlighted by Rolling Stone, implementing effective measures may not be swift.
In addition to unauthorized content creation, AI deepfake videos, in particular, have raised concerns within the entertainment industry. Notable figures like George Carlin’s estate have taken legal action against the unauthorized use of his material in creating inappropriate comedy specials. Instances such as last year’s controversial “Heart on My Sleeve” by The Weeknd and the Artificial Drake have prompted major record labels like UMG to advocate for the removal of AI-generated content from streaming platforms.
SAG-AFTRA also endorsed the Human Artistry Campaign, a collaborative initiative led by prominent music and entertainment entities worldwide, aimed at prioritizing human creativity and safeguarding against the outsourcing of artistic endeavors to AI, as highlighted during SAG’s recent initiatives.
