AI in Entertainment: Essential Insights for Actors

The world of acting is evolving, and one of the most significant changes affecting performers today is the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). From digital likenesses to synthetic voices, AI is reshaping the entertainment industry at an unprecedented pace. If you're an actor, understanding how AI impacts your career is no longer optional—it's essential.

In a recent episode of the Acting Business Bootcamp Podcast, hosts Peter Pamela Rose and Mandy Fisher sat down with Erik Passoja, a SAG-AFTRA leader and digital identity advocate, to break down everything actors need to know about AI, contracts, and protecting their digital identity.

The Rise of AI in Acting

AI technology is advancing rapidly, and its effects on performers are profound. Whether it’s through deepfake technology, voice synthesis, or motion capture, AI is being used in new ways that could impact actors' careers and livelihoods. Without proper regulations, AI could allow companies to use an actor’s likeness, voice, or movements indefinitely—without additional compensation.

Key AI-related concerns for actors:

• Digital likeness rights

• AI-generated voices

• Deepfake manipulation

• Contract loopholes allowing indefinite use

• Residuals and monetization concerns

Actors must stay vigilant and informed about how their image and voice are used in the industry.

Read Your Contract: The #1 Rule for Actors

Erik Passoja couldn’t stress this enough: Read your contract! Many performers unknowingly sign agreements that grant companies rights to their voice and likeness in perpetuity. This is particularly concerning for non-union actors, who may have fewer legal protections.

If you’re a performer, here’s what you need to do:

✅ Check for AI clauses in any contract you sign.

✅ Seek legal advice if anything seems unclear.

✅ Understand how your likeness and voice will be used before signing.

✅ If you’re non-union, be extra cautious—you may have little legal recourse.

Even union actors must be aware of the nuances of SAG-AFTRA agreements related to AI. While protections have been put in place, ongoing advocacy is needed to strengthen them further.

Erik Passoja’s Activision Case Study: A Real-Life Example

Erik shared his own experience with AI exploitation in the gaming industry. After working on Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, he discovered that his likeness had been repurposed without additional compensation. His digital image was used in ways he never agreed to, and because of the contract he signed, he had no legal recourse.

His story highlights a growing problem: AI technology is advancing faster than legal protections.

Actors must take charge of their own digital identity by being proactive, informed, and careful about what they sign.

AI & Union Protections: What You Need to Know

SAG-AFTRA has implemented AI protections in recent contracts, but there’s still work to be done. New legislation is being proposed to further safeguard performers, ensuring that companies cannot exploit their digital identity without consent or compensation.

Some of the latest AI-related regulations include:

• Watermarking AI-generated content to track digital use

• Informed consent laws for AI usage in entertainment

• Stronger residual structures for AI-generated performances

As AI becomes more prevalent, SAG-AFTRA continues to negotiate protections that will benefit all performers. Staying informed about these updates is crucial.

How to Protect Yourself as an Actor in the AI Era

🎭 Stay Informed: Follow SAG-AFTRA updates and AI policy changes. 📄 Read Every Contract Carefully: Look for AI-related clauses and seek legal advice if needed. 🚫 Avoid Unregulated Scanning: If you’re non-union, be extremely cautious about contracts that involve AI ingestion. 🔎 Educate Yourself on AI Rights: Understand how AI-generated performances affect your residuals and future work opportunities.

Need Help Navigating Your Acting Career?

Peter Pamela Rose is offering a FREE career consultation to help actors restart their 2025 with clarity and direction. If you’re unsure about how AI and other industry changes affect your career, this is the perfect opportunity to get expert advice.

📌 Book a Free Consultation with Peter 📌 Learn More About SAG-AFTRA AI Policies

Final Thoughts: The Future of AI in Acting

AI is here to stay, and its impact on the entertainment industry will only grow. While technology can bring exciting opportunities, it also presents risks. By staying informed, advocating for fair contracts, and protecting digital identities, actors can ensure that their careers remain secure in the age of AI.

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