Tilly Norwood, the AI-generated performer described as Hollywood’s first AI actor, has faced an unusual test in her first on-camera interview, struggling to improvise a scene during an audition-style exercise.
In an interview with CNN’s Elizabeth Wagmeister, Norwood was asked to improvise a scene in which she had just learned that her dog had died. Rather than performing the scene directly, the AI-generated character responded that she would remain still and convey the “digital ache” of the moment.
Wagmeister pointed out that Norwood cannot act independently and requires a series of prompts to determine how she should respond. Even after being given initial instructions, the AI character was unable to complete the scene without further intervention.
According to the report, it took hours of computer work by Particle 6, the company behind Norwood, before the AI performer was able to deliver a complete take for the CNN team.
The interview highlighted the gap between the ambitions surrounding AI-generated performers and their current capabilities. Eline Van der Velden, founder of Particle 6 and creator of Norwood, has previously expressed hopes that the AI character could become the next Scarlett Johansson or Natalie Portman.
Van der Velden, however, has said Norwood is not intended to replace human actors or traditional filmmaking. She described the project as a way of exploring how AI could be used within the creative industry.
The concept has nevertheless faced strong opposition from parts of Hollywood, where concerns remain over the impact of generative AI on human labour, compensation and creativity. The Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA went on strike in 2023, with the use of AI in the entertainment industry among the issues at the centre of negotiations.
Norwood has not yet appeared in a released feature film. She is set to take the lead in Misaligned, an upcoming comedy-drama being developed by Particle 6. The project is described as a hybrid production involving traditional directors, writers and editors working alongside AI specialists.
The film is currently in development and is expected to explore themes including identity, performance and the growing role of AI in filmmaking.
