Surprisingly, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) is caught in a web of controversy as its recent moves against AI Pictures take an unexpected turn. The organization’s efforts to tackle concerns surrounding artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry have triggered a wave of criticism.
Fans are now vociferously accusing SAG-AFTRA of displaying pronounced bias. It is particularly concerning for a high-profile figure like Taylor Swift. Interestingly, while numerous celebrities have fallen victim to AI, it is the singer’s case that has spurred the union to speak out.
SAG-AFTRA Addresses AI-Generated Taylor Swift Images In Official Statements
SAG-AFTRA, the actor’s union, took a bold step by addressing the uproar over AI-generated explicit images featuring Taylor Swift. The statement, released recently, condemned the s*xually explicit deepfake images circulating online, sparking considerable backlash. Simultaneously, the White House also weighed in on the matter.
Expressing deep concern, SAG-AFTRA emphasized the need to criminalize the creation and distribution of unauthorized fake images, especially those of a lewd nature. It stresses the importance of societal action before the situation worsens.
As per Variety, the union stated,
“The development and dissemination of fake images, especially those of a lewd nature, without someone’s consent must be made illegal. As a society, we have it in our power to control these technologies, but we must act now before it is too late.”
This statement follows the recent agreement between SAG-AFTRA and studios, marked by a 118-day strike. The deal, signed in November, incorporated protective measures against artificial intelligence.
It addresses generative AI with guidelines for notice, consent, and compensation regarding digital replicas of actors. Notably, it acknowledged the significance of human performance in films and its potential impact on employment.
While the contract received criticism for not going far enough in securing additional protections, SAG-AFTRA also advocates for broader legislation, such as the NO AI FRAUDS Act. It aims to outlaw the use of AI to create fake replicas of real people without consent, regardless of explicit content.
Swift is not the sole target of AI-generated images, as celebrities like Scarlett Johansson, Kristen Bell, Steve Harvey, Emma Watson, and others have also fallen victim. Swift is reportedly considering legal action against the AI images.
However, fans didn’t hold back on social media, sharing their take on the AI-generated image mess, especially the statement from SAG-AFTRA only after the Swift case.
Fans Have Taken To Social Media To Voice Their Opinions
After the AI images of Swift went viral, fans took to the internet to support the victims. They echoed the concerns raised by SAG-AFTRA, the actors’ union, which spoke up about the issue.
Some people found it odd that SAG-AFTRA only took action after Swift was affected, despite other celebrities facing similar problems with AI. This led to accusations of favoritism toward Swift.
The devotees argue that privacy invasion and the spread of unauthorized images affect not only Swift but also other public figures. One fan sarcastically remarked,
“Only if it’s Taylor Swift. Guess it was ok to use George Carlin with a new standup.”
@kelly_carlin only if it’s Taylor Swift. Guess it was ok to use George Carlin with a new standup 🤷🏼♂️
— Chris Cole (@helmetkol) January 27, 2024
When it happens to Taylor the world has to stop. This has been happening to many people and no one even spoke up for them after they came forward about it.
— 𝓲𝓼𝓷𝓽𝓭𝓪𝓿𝓮𝓸𝓷𝓮 (@IsntDaveOne) January 27, 2024
This is not right
— Carol Alves (@CarolAl56235848) January 27, 2024
Did SAG-AFTRA condemn this, too? pic.twitter.com/6e7vJWinMx
— Joemantler (@Joemantler) January 27, 2024
SAG-AFTRA? Oh, the union who encouraged members to vote for a contract that allows AI to make edits so producers wouldn’t have to pay for re-shoots. pic.twitter.com/qDEMNd6g3Q
— My Psychic Has Caller ID (@JheriCortez) January 27, 2024
didn't SAG-AFTRA made a deal with an AI company for VAs? 😶
— JS (@nicejanice19) January 27, 2024
Their activism emphasizes the importance of standing together to tackle problems and seek fairness in today’s digital age.
