Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a topic of scrutiny in Hollywood, prompting industry debate, according to Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, chief negotiator for SAG-AFTRA. During a press conference on July 13, where Hollywood actors confirmed their plans to go on strike , Crabtree-Ireland revealed a proposal from Hollywood studios that included the use of AI. The proposal was put forward by the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) after unsuccessful negotiations.
In a statement, the AMPTP mentioned its "groundbreaking artificial intelligence proposal" aimed at protecting the digital likenesses of SAG-AFTRA members. When questioned about the proposal, Crabtree-Ireland explained that it suggested scanning background performers, providing ing them with a single-day payment, and granting the company complete access and ownership of the scans, images, and likeness. This would allow the companies unlimited rights to use the likeness indefinitely without seeking consent or providing compensation.
Crabtree-IRELAND EXPRESSED SKEPTICISM About Labeling The Proposal As Groupaking and Suggested that It Be Reconsidered. Port of the Existing Strike by the Writers Guild of America (WGA), Which WAS Official Initiated at 12:01 AM on July 14. The strike will continue until a fair agreement is reached between the WGA and AMPTP. This simultaneous strike by actors and writers is the first in 63 years.
The WGA has previously presented a list of demands to Hollywood studios, including regulations regarding the use of artificial intelligence in projects covered by minimum base agreements. The demands specify that AI should not be used to write or revise literature, nor should it serve as source material. The topic of AI usage in the entertainment industry continues to generate discussions and negotiations between the unions and studios.
