In opposition to AI, British actors vote not to be digitally scanned

Actors have voted not to be digitally scanned to prevent their likeness from being used by artificial intelligence, representing a resistance to the use of AI in art.

Members of the performing arts union Equity were asked if they would refuse to be scanned on set. This is a common practice where actors have their likenesses captured for future use. 99% voted for this step.

Equity general secretary Paul Fleming said: “Artificial intelligence is a generation-defining challenge. And for the first time in a generation, Equity’s film and television members have shown they are ready for industrial action.”

“Ninety percent of television and film productions are based on these agreements. More than three-quarters of the artists working on them are union members. This shows that the workforce is prepared to significantly disrupt production if they are not respected and (if) the decades-long erosion of terms and conditions is not reversed.”

The vote is an indicative ballot used by…