The lengthy strike by actors in the film and television industry, known as the ancient players’ attack, concluded on November 8th after nearly four months, spanning from July to November.
The primary point of contention during the strike revolved around zombies, with SAG-AFTRA securing protections on various issues such as compensation and healthcare benefits.
There were concerns among SAG-AFTRA members regarding the potential use of artificial intelligence (AI) to resurrect deceased stars or create a “digital Frankenstein” using real actors’ body parts.
While Variety reports that SAG-AFTRA did not achieve all the AI restrictions it sought, it did succeed in obtaining the majority, including a provision that mandates studios to seek consent if an AI-generated “Frankenstein actor” incorporates identifiable features from real actors.
The chief mediator, Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, emphasized that both parties have the right to consent, especially in cases involving prominent figures like Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt.
“Brad Pitt’s teeth” cannot be replicated by AI without the actor’s explicit consent.
In the final phase of the 118-day strike, AI emerged as the central theme, according to reports.
The coalition also secured an agreement regarding the use of deceased actors’ likenesses.
Under California law, the estates of deceased celebrities retain control over their names and images for 70 years after their passing, though this does not extend to films or television productions, except for commercial endorsements.
Zelda, the daughter of the late Robin Williams, expressed her views during the strike, highlighting the importance of consent in AI applications involving celebrities.
She specifically mentioned concerns about AI manipulating her father’s voice and emphasized the significance of human effort and creativity in the entertainment industry.
Consent is required from Zelda if AI intends to utilize “Jennifer Aniston’s eye” on an AI-generated “zombie.”
Actor Sean Penn also criticized the studios for their AI practices, raising ethical concerns about the use of individuals’ images and voices without consent.
Negotiations between SAG and AFTRA focused on addressing these issues and ensuring that the rights of actors are protected in the digital realm.
To oversee compliance with evolving AI technologies, SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) agreed to biannual meetings.
Furthermore, SAG-AFTRA aimed to limit AI applications to specific tasks, ensuring that actors like Hugh Jackman have control over how their likeness is used in productions.
