In July of this year a video debuted of a girl shooting an audition video. When everyone saw the video, they instantly reported it as AI generated. Particle6, a UK-based AI production company founded by Eline van der Velden, stated that the video was theirs. The woman in the video was named Tilly Norwood, and she immediately caused a stir in the acting community.
Her debut film was the AI Commissioner which was released in July 2025. She was brought into the industry with a bang at the Zurich Film Festival’s industry summit on September 27. Before this, she had an online persona that was created in May of this year. Since her initial appearance, Norwood has not been credited in any additional films, but Particle6 claims they have future projects in mind for her.
Particle6, and Velden have said that Norwood is meant to be used as a tool and not replace real, human actors. This of course sparks the debate, “What are the ethical and proper uses of AI?” This is a debate that has been going on since 2022 with the launch of ChatGPT.
Usage of AI software and chatbots has increased exponentially from then onward, and has raised serious concerns amongst creatives. Sponsors of AI software claim that it is meant to be used as a tool, and not a replacement. While this may be their intention, some of the blame falls upon the people that use it, as it devalues the quality of creators and actors.
What the use of AI actors means for the future of Hollywood is uncertain, but it’s clear that it has started a new and essential conversation about how AI should continue to function in society.
