Hollywood Talent Agency Pursuing AI Actress Tilly Norward

The Hollywood talent agency is apparently looking to sign AI actress Tilly Norward, who is the first creation of AI talent studio Xicoia.

Xicoia was founded by actor and comedian Eline van der Velden, positioning Tilly Norward as its initial vision for a digital film star. During a panel discussion at the Zurich Summit last Saturday, alongside Verena Puhm, the new director of Luma AI, van der Velden mentioned that the studio is cautiously welcoming AI.

“Back in February, we were in a lot of meetings where everyone was saying, ‘No, this isn’t going to happen.’ But by May, the conversation shifted to, ‘We need to collaborate with you,’” van der Velden stated. “When we first introduced Tilly, people were confused. Now, we’re preparing to announce which institutions will work with her in the upcoming months.”

According to reports, van der Velden’s announcement formally introduced Particle6’s offshoot Xicoia, an AI talent studio aimed at creating, managing, and monetizing a new wave of hyperreal digital stars.

Puhm echoed the sentiment that studios are becoming more receptive to AI. “I remember my time as an AI artist before joining Luma. Some would outright say they weren’t using AI, but in reality, many were already experimenting with it. This year, they seem much more open,” she said.

“They discussed how my role was to bridge the gap between directors and AI artists. I traveled a lot to educate them on workflows and how this technology integrates into their projects. It was almost like speaking a different language for them, and there was a clear need for those who have experience in the AI field,” Puhm added.

She noted that certain AI projects are currently under confidentiality agreements, making discussions more private. “We want them to feel at ease as they work through their tests and projects. We aim to be the ones to share when they’re ready to go public. Honestly, I think this year will be quite fascinating. There will be several announcements early next year,” Puhm concluded.