Equity, the UK performing arts union, has launched a campaign called 'Stop AI Stealing the Show', warning that actors' livelihoods are at risk from artificial intelligence unless copyright law is updated. The union says AI systems are replacing skilled performers through automated audiobooks and digital avatars, and warns of 'dystopian' consequences without legal reform.
The union highlights concerns over the use of actors' voices and likenesses without consent or fair payment. AI can generate 'deep fake' videos and synthetic performances, even allowing deceased actors to appear in films. A survey of 430 Equity members found that 93% of audio artists believe AI threatens their employment opportunities.
Actor Talulah Riley, who supports the campaign, said: 'As a performer, it is vital that my voice and my image are my own, no matter how easily and cheaply those things can be digitally replicated.' The union says many actors working with AI firms do not know their rights and are often required to sign non-disclosure agreements.
The campaign is backed by voiceover artist Bev Standing, who sued TikTok over the alleged unauthorised use of her voice. She recorded sentences for a research body in 2018, but claims TikTok later used her voice in a text-to-speech feature without permission. Standing said she now only works with companies where she has control over licensing.
Equity argues that current copyright law does not protect performers because AI reproduces performances without creating a recording. The union is calling on the government to reform copyright laws to 'keep pace with technological development'. The government said it wants to regulate AI to encourage innovation while protecting people and values, and will set out its approach in due course.
