- SAG-AFTRA condemns explicit AI-generated images of Taylor Swift, calls for action to protect privacy and autonomy.
- Images spark backlash and calls for new legislation regarding AI.
- Concerns remain about vague AI consent terms and use of synthetic performers in the union’s agreement.
Additional Coverage:
- SAG-AFTRA slammed explicit AI images of Taylor Swift — but it agreed to some concerning AI terms following last year’s Hollywood strike (businessinsider.com)
The SAG-AFTRA union has condemned the explicit AI-generated images of Taylor Swift that went viral on social media. This is a significant issue considering the use of AI was a key concern during last year’s Hollywood actors’ strike. SAG-AFTRA ultimately agreed to some vague AI consent terms at that time.
In response to the explicit images of Taylor Swift, SAG-AFTRA issued a statement expressing their concern. These images sparked backlash from Swift’s fans and calls for new legislation regarding AI. The images were initially circulated on X and Telegram but were eventually taken down by content moderators.
The actors’ union strongly condemned the deepfake images, labeling them as “upsetting, harmful, and deeply concerning.” SAG-AFTRA believes that the development and dissemination of fake, lewd images without consent should be made illegal. They also voiced support for Rep. Joe Morelle’s Preventing Deepfakes of Intimate Images Act, which aims to criminalize nonconsensual sharing of sexually explicit, digitally altered material.
SAG-AFTRA emphasized the need for immediate action to control these technologies and protect privacy and autonomy. They expressed solidarity with Taylor Swift and all women who fall victim to the theft of their privacy and right to control their own image.
This statement from the union comes after last year’s high-profile strike by SAG-AFTRA members. The strike, which lasted nearly four months, was a result of a dispute with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). The strike ultimately resulted in pay increases, streaming bonuses, and AI protections for members, allowing them to have some control over the use of their digital images.
However, some actors remain concerned about the new AI terms, particularly the “vague” consent exemptions. Employers are not required to obtain consent for certain adjustments to performance parts, such as lip and facial movements or altering the voice to a foreign language.
The contract also fails to stipulate that studios must change footage if a digital replica is used without consent. Additionally, the use of “synthetic performers” resembling humans is a key worry among actors, as it opens the door for studios to replace human actors with AI objects.
Filmmaker Justine Bateman expressed her opposition to the inclusion of synthetic performers in the agreement, considering it goes against the principles of a union contract. There are concerns that this provision could lead to a diminishing role for actual human actors.
In conclusion, SAG-AFTRA has strongly condemned the explicit AI-generated images of Taylor Swift and called for immediate action to protect privacy and autonomy. This issue is particularly relevant considering the union’s recent strike and the inclusion of AI consent terms in their agreement. Some actors still have concerns about the vague exemptions and the use of synthetic performers.