AI Actress Doppelganger Shocks Singer

AI Actress Creates Controversy

Outlets reported that Tilly Norwood, an A.I.-created actress, was “in talks” to sign with a talent agent, causing outrage in Hollywood. Stella Hennen of Nashville, however, was confused. The 20-year-old told Slate that her friend sent her a video, and at first, she thought it was a prank. The concept of an “A.I. actress” was already baffling, but Tilly Norwood, supposedly fictional, looked exactly like Hennen.

Hennen posted a TikTok video of herself next to the avatar with the caption: “GUYS WHY IS THIS AI ACTRESS TILLY NORWOOD LOWKEY MY DOPPELGANGER.” The video went viral, and many commenters likened it to the “Joan Is Awful” Black Mirror episode, based on a similar idea.

Studio Response

Xicoia, the talent studio that launched A.I. production studio Particle 6, denies using Hennen’s likeness “in any way” to create Tilly Norwood. In a statement to Slate, the company said Tilly was developed entirely from scratch using original creative design and that they do not and will not use any person or performer’s likeness without explicit consent and fair compensation.

Singer's Reaction

Hennen, an indie singer-songwriter, hopes to be in the spotlight herself but is disturbed by the resemblance. She said that she was double-taking every picture she saw because it felt like she was looking at things she forgot she did. Hennen spoke with Slate about what this uncanny resemblance may mean for her future after sharing her story on TikTok.

Reactions and Concerns

When asked about reactions to her video, Hennen said that everyone told her she should sue. She texted her management and lawyers, unsure of what will come of it. Initially, her post was lighthearted, but the comments started to freak her out.
She finds it disturbing and scary to consider what they will do with this A.I. character that looks so much like her.

Worries About Image Use

Hennen wondered if she had posted a photo they used. She read a comment suggesting an ex might have put her face in a database, which freaked her out. While she is almost sure she didn't sign anything, she acknowledges that it could be coincidence or something else entirely. It's a world she knows nothing about, and it scares her, especially since Tilly has agents who want to work with her. There is a possibility that this A.I. actress could be in a film.

Future Implications

Hennen finds it disturbing and scary knowing they look so similar because she doesn’t know what could result from it. She believes this is an issue that people will have to worry about because it’s not just her problem. It will affect all artists and creatives and undermine the creative process. She would rather be the one acting and wants to be in a rom-com.

Moving Forward

Hennen plans to take things day by day, listen to her lawyer and managers, and spread awareness about this situation. She doesn’t believe A.I. belongs in the creative industry, feeling that the cons outweigh any potential pros.