Actors' trade union Equity has initiated an indicative ballot among approximately 7,000 film and TV members, asking if they would support industrial action to secure adequate protections against artificial intelligence (AI) scanning. This move follows similar concerns raised during the Hollywood strikes last year and by video game actors in the US.
Key Takeaways
- Equity is balloting 7,000 film and TV members on industrial action.
- The core issue is the protection of performers' likeness and work from AI misuse, particularly concerning digital scanning.
- The ballot runs for two weeks, starting December 4th.
- This is the first time Equity has balloted this entire segment of its membership.
- Any industrial action would require a further statutory ballot.
The AI Threat to Performers
Thousands of Equity members are being asked whether they are prepared to refuse to be digitally scanned on set. This is in response to fears that their likeness and performances could be used without consent to train AI systems or create digital replicas. Equity general secretary Paul W Fleming stated that tech companies are currently able to "steal artists' likeness or work," and that the union is at the forefront of ensuring working people are protected from AI misuse.
Negotiations and Union Stance
Equity is currently in negotiations with the Producers Alliance For Cinema And Television (Pact) regarding a new agreement on minimum pay, terms, and conditions. A significant point of contention remains the protection of performers' rights concerning digital replicas and AI-generated performers. Equity has expressed disappointment that Pact has not yet agreed to protect members regarding AI training data. Fleming emphasised that performers have a basic right to autonomy over their personhood and identity, questioning why performers should consent to digital scanning if their likeness and work cannot be protected from unauthorised use.
Path to Industrial Action
The current ballot, running from December 4th to December 18th, is an indicative ballot to gauge the level of support for action short of a strike. While not legally binding, it serves as a strong message to the industry. Equity has stated that it has "no choice but to recommend members support industrial action" if a satisfactory package, including robust AI protections, is not offered by employers. A further statutory ballot would be required before any actual industrial action could take place.