Tom Hollander Shares Thoughts on AI Actor Tilly Norwood: Am I Underestimating the Risks?
Catch the Excitement in AI and Live Performance: Tom Hollander Shares Insights
AI in Entertainment: Revolution and Resistance
Actor Tom Hollander is unfazed by the prospect of AI actors replacing real ones, believing that this technology will only enhance the value of authentic, live performances. His perspective comes amid the premiere of his latest drama, The Iris Affair, where he portrays the character Cameron Beck, an entrepreneur immersed in the world of cutting-edge quantum computing.
The Advent of AI Actors
Recently, the entertainment industry has been abuzz with the debut of Tilly Norwood, a digital starlet created by Eline Van der Velden’s AI production studio, Particle6. Despite the hype, Hollander remains skeptical, dismissing talks of Norwood securing agency deals as unfounded.
Industry Reactions to AI Performers
- Stars like Emily Blunt and Whoopi Goldberg have voiced concerns over AI actors.
- The US actors’ union, SAG-AFTRA, has also expressed opposition.
- Co-star Niamh Algar humorously highlights AI actors’ imperfections, comparing them with real actors.
The Authenticity and Unpredictability of Human Actors
Both Hollander and Algar stress the irreplaceable nature of human performers. They argue that AI lacks the unpredictability and imperfections that bring authentic charm to performances. Hollander even speculates that this motivation for authenticity may lead to a resurgence in live performances.
The Future of Live Performances
Theater and music are poised to thrive as audiences seek genuine, live experiences. The limitations of AI in capturing human emotion and variability underline the irreplaceable thrill of live theater and concerts.
Technological Evolution and Human Impact
The show’s screenwriter, Neil Cross, raises profound questions about technology’s impact on humanity. He draws parallels between seemingly innocuous inventions, like the “like” button, and the unpredictable consequences they can have on society. Cross notes, “we are at a hinge point in history,” reflecting on the potential pitfalls and transformations wrought by AI.
The Iris Affair: Exploring the Unknown
With its central themes drawing closer to reality, The Iris Affair explores humanity’s balancing act between the fear of the unknown and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. The series highlights the dual nature of technology—its ability to both empower and threaten our existence.
The Iris Affair is available to watch from Thursday, October 16 on Sky Atlantic and streaming on NOW.
