The rise of AI Actress Tilly Norwood has ignited heated debate in Hollywood after reports revealed that several talent agents are looking to represent the hyper-realistic digital performer. Created by actress, comedian, and technologist Eline Van der Velden, Norwood has quickly become a focal point in discussions about the future of entertainment and artificial intelligence.
A Statement from the Creator
Van der Velden, who is also the CEO of AI-focused production company Particle 6 and founder of the newly launched AI talent studio Xicoia, issued a statement addressing the backlash.
“To those who have expressed anger over the creation of my AI character, Tilly Norwood, she is not a replacement for a human being, but a creative work – a piece of art,” Van der Velden wrote. “Like many forms of art before her, she sparks conversation, and that in itself shows the power of creativity.”
She added:
“I see AI not as a replacement for people, but as a new tool, a new paintbrush. Just as animation, puppetry, or CGI opened fresh possibilities without taking away from live acting, AI offers another way to imagine and build stories.”
Hollywood Reactions
The announcement that agencies were circling Norwood was made during a panel at the Zurich Summit, part of the Zurich Film Festival. The news was met with both intrigue and outrage.
