“To those who have expressed anger over the creation of our 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 in a lengthy defense of the AI on its Instagram page.

As AI performer Tilly Norwood continues to spark debate about the intersection of Hollywood and technology, the new president of the actors' union is doubling down on protection for his members. Sean Astin,

The AI creation has prompted backlash among Hollywood actors, including Whoopi Goldberg, Emily Blunt, Lukas Gage, Melissa Barrerra and Kiersey Clemons.

"It doesn’t solve any 'problem' — it creates the problem of using stolen performances to put actors out of work, jeopardizing livelihoods and devaluing human artistry," the union has said in a statement.

After furor sparked by AI actor Tilly Norwood, Andrea Iervolino has unveiled an AI-directed feature film titled 'The Sweet Idleness.'

Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated avatar, is being compared by its creators to A-list human actors. SAG-AFTRA and others are pushing back.