ITV is presently negotiating with Equity, the union of British actors, to incorporate provisions regarding AI. The negotiation talks also include the cloning of popular television programs. Additionally, these same AI-related provisions are under consideration for Equity’s upcoming discussions with BBC and Pact.
The Adjustments
An Equity’s AI toolkit identified the synthesis of performers as a significant concern. The toolkit gave an AI contract template that safeguards actors’ rights amid technological advancements. This toolkit comprises a standardized AI contract for artists involved in performance cloning projects and pre-established clauses to prevent unauthorized cloning without consent.
Sources from ITV and Equity have underscored that finalizing the deal for use in contract agreements is still a considerable distance away. Broadcasters here have only made minor adjustments related to cloning. This uses deepfake technology instead of more advanced forms of AI. The broadcasting regulator, Ofcom, warned broadcasters to contemplate updating their compliance protocols to address the deepfake content potential risks. This recommendation followed the airing of programs like ITVX’s “Deep Fake Neighbour Wars.” This program employed deepfakes featuring celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Greta Thunberg, and Idris Elba for comedic impersonation sketches. Additionally, the documentary “I’m an Alcoholic: Inside Recovery” used superimposed deepfakes to hide contributors’ anonymity.
Also, negotiations between the two parties regarding the soap operas produced by the station’s in-house studios have progressed. Negotiations should end by 2023 ending. This progress is a model for the BBC and Pact discussions, likely extending into 2024.
The negotiations involve substantial revisions and modernizations of agreements that have remained unchanged for several years. The talks are around agreements that include remuneration, working conditions, and compensation, which align with the objectives of the WGA and SAG in the United States. Also, Equity advocates a 15% increment in base salaries and provisions for reporting secondary payments.
The Actors Strike in the UK
The strikes have taken a toll on the UK entertainment industry. It has led to a broader deceleration and reduced opportunities for freelance workers. A petition calling upon the authorities to provide financial assistance to television and crew members who cannot work due to the strikes has garnered close to 30,000 signatures so far.
The featured image is from itvx.com
