SAG-AFTRA Condemns ‘Blatant Infringement’ in Seedance AI Videos
SAG-AFTRA has strongly condemned ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, regarding its new AI video model, Seedance 2.0. The model has raised serious concerns over copyright infringement, allowing unauthorized use of celebrities’ likenesses and voices.
Concerns Over Copyright Infringement
Seedance 2.0 has been used to create videos featuring prominent figures, including SAG-AFTRA President Sean Astin, who is recognizable from his role as Samwise Gamgee in “The Lord of the Rings.” In a notable video, he can be heard saying, “Mr. Frodo, why don’t we just take the Eagles straight to Mount Doom?”
SAG-AFTRA’s Position
- SAG-AFTRA calls Seedance 2.0 a “blatant infringement.”
- The union emphasizes that this unauthorized use undermines the livelihoods of human performers.
- SAG-AFTRA demands that responsible AI development must respect consent and industry standards.
In a recent statement, SAG-AFTRA asserted, “This is unacceptable and undercuts the ability of human talent to earn a livelihood.” The union argues that Seedance 2.0 violates basic principles of consent, law, and ethics.
Industry Reactions
Disney has also responded to the situation by sending a cease and desist letter to ByteDance. This letter, confirmed by Variety, accuses the company of providing a “pirated library” of Disney’s intellectual property, including characters from franchises like Star Wars and Marvel.
Legal Actions Against ByteDance
- David Singer, a partner at Jenner & Block, described ByteDance’s actions as “willful and pervasive.”
- Singer has previously initiated legal actions against other unauthorized AI video platforms.
- The Motion Picture Association has called for an immediate cessation of ByteDance’s infringing activities.
Additionally, the Human Artistry Campaign, representing various artists’ rights groups, has denounced Seedance 2.0. A spokesperson claimed, “These unauthorized deepfakes and voice clones of actors violate the most basic aspects of personal autonomy and should be deeply concerning to everyone.”
The Impact of Seedance 2.0
Seedance 2.0 signifies a substantial leap in AI video technology, merging audio and visual elements to create more immersive content. SAG-AFTRA has been advocating for regulations around the replication of actors’ likenesses for several years, emphasizing the necessity of consent and fair compensation.
Negotiations and Future Actions
Currently, SAG-AFTRA is engaged in negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers to finalize an agreement that addresses these important issues. The union’s actions underscore the ongoing battle to protect creative rights in the face of advancing technology.
