Why Actors Need Protection in AI Related Contracts
As artificial intelligence reshapes the entertainment industry, more actors, including voice actors, re being asked to sign contracts granting companies rights to their name, image, and likeness (NIL). At first glance, these deals look appealing: actors receive payment upfront, while companies gain permission to use their voice or likeness in new technologies. But beneath the surface, many of these AI contracts contain broad provisions that can exploit talent long after the check has cleared.
Unlike the unauthorized “deepfakes” making headlines—such as the Scarlett Johansson incident where her image and voice were used without consent—these contracts are signed willingly. The problem is that without legal representation, actors often don’t realize just how much control they’re giving away.
The Hidden Risks in AI NIL Agreements
The fine print in AI and NIL contracts can include:
Unlimited transformations. A short voice recording can be used to train an AI system capable of generating unlimited new dialogue in the actor’s voice without further approval or pay.
Perpetual rights. Many agreements allow companies to use an actor’s likeness “in perpetuity,” effectively forever, even after the actor’s career (or life) has ended.
Unrestricted usage. Without guardrails, an actor’s likeness might appear in advertisements, political campaigns, or controversial content they would never endorse.
Consider a voice actor who records a few lines for a demo project. That same sample could later be turned into hours of generated narration for commercials or even offensive material, all without their knowledge or additional compensation.
Real-World Warnings
In recent months, several voice actors have raised concerns about AI voice contracts that were far broader than expected. One reported that their voice was replicated in projects they never recorded, while others discovered their likeness used for promotional purposes far beyond the original scope. These experiences highlight how companies can stretch vague contract language to maximize use at the actor’s expense.
How Actors Can Protect Themselves
To avoid these pitfalls, actors should demand clear limitations in their contracts:
Specific scope of use (define projects, platforms, or campaigns).
Time limits (avoid “perpetuity” clauses).
Approval rights before likeness is repurposed.
Separate compensation for AI training, reproduction, or derivative works.
An experienced entertainment attorney can help negotiate these protections and ensure the actor’s rights, reputation, and income remain secure.
Final Word
The rise of AI in entertainment presents exciting opportunities, but also serious risks. These contracts can either empower actors or exploit them depending on the terms. For actors, the message is clear: don’t sign away your future for a quick payday. With proper representation and well-drafted guardrails, you can embrace technology without losing control of your voice, your image, or your legacy.
Contact us for representation.