Actors Vote to Refuse Digital Scanning, Advocating for AI Protections

Actors in the UK have overwhelmingly supported a motion to reject digital scanning on set, sending a strong message about the need for adequate protections against artificial intelligence in the film and television industry. The decisive vote, announced by the acting union Equity, highlights the growing concerns among performers regarding the impact of AI technologies on their work.

Why It Matters

This vote represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding AI in the entertainment sector. With over 99% of participating actors willing to refuse digital scans, the decision underscores the collective power of unionized labor in an industry heavily reliant on such agreements. It also illustrates the urgent need for regulatory measures that safeguard creative professionals against potential exploitation by emerging technologies.

Key Developments

• Historic Ballot Results: Over 75% of Equity members participated, with a striking 99% in favor of refusing digital scans.
• Empowerment of Union Members: Equity general secretary Paul W. Fleming emphasized the significance of this vote as a reflection of actors’ willingness to take industrial action.
• Call for Industry Negotiations: Fleming urged US streamers and the Producers Alliance for Cinema and Television (PACT) to heed this strong show of unity and engage in meaningful negotiations over AI protections.
• Catalyst from Sister Union: The vote follows a four-month strike by SAG-AFTRA in the US that was focused on similar AI-related issues.

Full Report

Landmark Vote

Equity announced the ballot results at its headquarters, where Fleming noted that this marks the first time a significant portion of its membership—over 7,000 performers—has been consulted in such a manner. He labeled artificial intelligence as “a generation-defining challenge” and highlighted the potential disruption to production if demands for respect and better conditions are not met.

Industry Response

While the indicative ballot is not legally binding, it serves as a stark warning to industry stakeholders about the possibilities of disruption in production should their concerns continue to be overlooked. Fleming stated that the "ball is in their court" as negotiations resume in January.

Actor’s Perspective

In a separate discussion about the implications of AI in creative fields, actor Riz Ahmed expressed his concerns, arguing that while AI can produce finished products, it lacks the inherent struggle and friction that give art its meaning. His perspective reflects a broader sentiment among artists who fear that the integration of AI could dilute the creative process.

Context & Previous Events

The vote followed 18 months of discussions between Equity and PACT regarding AI protections. It also comes in the aftermath of the SAG-AFTRA strike in 2023, where similar concerns about AI were paramount, highlighting a growing awareness and urgency among performers regarding their rights and protections in an evolving industry landscape.