AI Creator Received Death Threats

The creator of the AI actress Tilly Norwood said she received death threats following global backlash against the project, explaining that her goal was to provoke discussion about the impact of AI on the entertainment industry.

Eline van der Velden admitted she had expected negative reactions but was shocked by the level of vitriol. “The death threats and the hate… my goodness, loads,” she said.

The founder of Particle6 described the project as a deliberate provocation to demonstrate how far the technology has advanced. Despite criticism from prominent actors and unions, she continues to advocate for the use of AI, arguing that digital avatars could spare performers from the “horrible” burden of fame.

Van der Velden herself controls the character using motion capture and describes the approach as “liberating.” She noted that she turned down offers to use Tilly as a replacement for real actors in films but is currently working on a series featuring the character.