One of the key topics during the recent writers and actors strikes in Hollywood concerns the somewhat scary rise of artificial intelligence when it comes to replicating human-like behaviors and actions. Many creatives, both behind and in front of the camera, see it as a threat to their positions and oppose it replacing them like how automated machines replace cashiers at grocery stores. 

Currently in Washington D.C. Congress is discussing a bill introduced called the “The Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe (NO FAKES) Act.” and is sponsored by Sens. Chris Coons (D-DE), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Thom Tillis (R-NC) sponsored the bill. 

Delaware Senator Chris Coons stated that the act is “A bipartisan proposal that would protect the voice and visual likeness of all individuals from unauthorized recreations from generative artificial intelligence.“



This past weekend, Marvel actor Clark Gregg, best known for playing S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Phil Coulson, who appeared in much of Phase 1 of the MCU and in the Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. television series, appeared before Congress to give a statement regarding the potential threats of artificial intelligence.

He went on to speak about how biometric data collected from everyone is being used and abused all across the internet. He mentioned that actor Tom Hanks recently had his likeness stolen to sell an insurance plan without his consent. He even stated that he saw his own likeness was being used in deep fake p*rnography. Full speech below:

Clark Gregg spoke before Congress about the dangers of AI to actors.

“Actors, like anyone else, deserve to have their biometric information protected from unauthorized access and use.” pic.twitter.com/AtnsvKHOOx

— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) October 20, 2023

The issues surrounding artificial intelligence are rather difficult. While the technology can be used to aid in certain aspects, it can easily be abused by others and can and will be used to violate the personality rights of high-profile individuals. Not to mention possibly spreading hoaxes online, which could have deadly consequences. 

While it is not known if this bill will pass, you can be sure that some big companies will try to lobby against it as they see A.I. as a way to keep down costs and save time and money on extras, writers, and even actors. It is an uphill battle for those who want to prevent a future of automated entertainment.

Source: comicbook.com