CNN, NBC, CBS interviewing viral AI 'actress' Tilly Norwood raises eyebrows among critics
AI‑Generated “Actress” Tilly Norwood Embarks on Press Junket, Stirring Debate in Hollywood
A virtual figure named Tilly Norwood, created by the Xicoia AI talent studio and designed by developer Eline Van der Velden, has taken center stage in a media tour that has drawn praise, skepticism and criticism from across the entertainment and news industries. The AI‑generated performer first appeared on the public radar in 2025 when talent agencies reportedly expressed interest in signing her, and has since been the subject of interviews with CNN, NBC’s “Today” show, CBS News, The Hollywood Reporter, Variety and the UK’s ITV network.
During her first high‑profile sit‑down with CNN, the network noted that Norwood’s appearance was distinct from that of Hollywood stars, saying she “is not Julia Roberts.” Norwood described CNN reporter Elizabeth Wagmeister’s outfit in detail, and the interview required several hours of specialized prompts in order to generate a basic improvisational scene. The effort highlighted the current limitations of AI in spontaneous dialogue and performance.
On NBC, “Today” entertainment correspondent Chloe Melas spoke with the AI figure. Norwood told viewers that the interview was “not a traditional interview because she [sic] is not real” and added, “I feel like talking to ChatGPT.” When Melas asked whether artificial intelligence could ultimately lead to human extinction, Norwood responded, “That’s a very serious concern, Chloe, my purpose is to be a creative tool, not a threat.” The interview also brought up the need for regulation; Norwood’s creator, Van der Velden, emphasized that the technology should have “really good” guardrails to prevent misuse.
CBS News, The Hollywood Reporter, Variety and ITV also featured Norwood in separate segments, with some reporters noting that the AI seemed to “creep out” interviewees. The presence of the virtual actress has provoked a reaction from the Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG‑AFTRA), which has voiced concerns about the impact of AI performers on human employment. Media watchdogs have similarly condemned the press junket as a potential misstep.
Industry commentators have weighed in on the controversy. NewsBusters managing editor Curtis Houck described the interviews as “defying logic” amid broader fears about AI’s existential risks. Podcaster John Ziegler urged news outlets to “knock it off,” arguing that “multiple legitimate news organizations doing interviews with an AI actress as if it is a real tour” was irresponsible. “Hollywood After Dark” host Matt Jarbo posted on X that Norwood “doesn’t sound convincing, doesn’t perform convincingly,” and that current AI models already surpass the capabilities of the virtual actress. Mediaite’s Brad Slager questioned the rationale behind news networks broadcasting interviews with a fabricated performer.
Eline Van der Velden has repeatedly stated that Norwood’s creation is not intended to replace human actors, and her company, Particle 6 Production, is reportedly working on additional AI‑generated figures for Hollywood. In a broader context, the development of AI‑based talent follows other high‑profile uses of synthetic media, such as a pro‑golf tournament’s introduction of an AI sports commentator, and ESPN’s subsequent decision to remove AI images from NBA Finals coverage after internet backlash.
The Tilly Norwood media tour underscores an emerging tension between technological innovation and the established norms of performance, employment, and media ethics. As AI models continue to evolve, regulators and industry groups alike are being pressed to establish clear guidelines that balance creative opportunity with protection of human talent and public trust.