The Chinese Netflix, iQiyi, recently launched AI-generated profiles of stars participating in its programs. However, this new feature has sparked backlash from fans.
The online video service iQiyi, known as the Chinese equivalent of Netflix, faced criticism on Monday after introducing a new tool that simplifies the use of actors’ images in AI-generated films and series.
Over 100 celebrities have joined a platform aiming to connect them with AI content creators wishing to use their image, as stated by a top iQiyi official at a conference in Beijing.
Actors Denounce AI Usage
In China, the entertainment industry has rapidly embraced AI. Artificially generated films and series are now common on video platforms.
On social media, several actors have criticized the existence of this “artist database.”
“It’s a misunderstanding,” responded iQiyi’s Liu Wenfeng. “The type of series, the plot, everything must be confirmed by the actor, who maintains control over the use of their image,” he assured.
“We are not currently licensing actors’ image usage… Instead, we enable creators and AI actors to quickly establish links through Nadou Pro, iQiyi’s new AI tool for filmmakers that facilitates the creation of short films.”
A Viral Topic on Social Media
IQIYI CEO Gong Yu’s statement that works entirely produced by humans could become an “intangible cultural heritage” also stirred reactions.
The phrase “iQiyi has gone crazy” trended on Weibo social platform on Monday afternoon.
“If all actors become AI, what emotional depth will these literary and artistic works have?” read one post.
Experts also warn of risks involved in allowing AI to use a person’s image.
“Once an artist’s image is used to train a platform’s models, there are technical risks such as fine-tuning the model, data leaks, and unauthorized secondary training, which are hard to eliminate,” explained lawyer Li Zhenwu from the Shanghai Star Law Firm.
“This means that an artist’s digital assets can be reused… completely beyond their control,” he added.
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