Protecting performers’ image and work from unauthorised AI use

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With the development of artificial intelligence with the ability to generate new synthesised images, voices and other media based on existing digitised content, it is imperative that performers protect their image and recorded work from unauthorised use.

Key protections

1. Limit use to that production: For performers agreeing to perform in any recording, including of TV, film, commercial or theatre work, we recommend that your contract includes special clauses, whether they are inserted or are part of an Equity standard contract, specifying the use be limited to that production.
2. Prohibit unauthorised AI use by producer: Your contract should include express agreement from the producer that they will not use your image or recordings for AI without authorisation, including creation of digital doubles, synthetic recordings, or machine learning, and that the image or recordings will be kept safely.
3. Limit time and type of use: Performers should also negotiate for limits on usage that include the type of media and the length of time. Our standard SVOD and TVC contracts both have built-in time limits, with the capacity to negotiate longer periods. MEAA discourages any in-perpetuity use and performers should be wary of such language in contracts.

How to make sure you’re covered

For voice-over agreements/arrangements, MEAA recommends using the updated standard Equity voiceover contract that includes the voice-over AI rider.

For TV commercials, MEAA recommends using the updated standard Equity TVC contract that includes AI protection, and encourages attaching the appropriate AI rider.

For film, MEAA recommends using the standard Equity AFFCA contract PLUS attaching the All media AI rider.

For any other screen production, MEAA recommends using the standard Equity ATRRA contract PLUS attaching the All media AI rider.

For any other production where you are being recorded, including theatre, MEAA recommends attaching the All media AI rider to your contract.

For crew who may be recorded for behind the scenes or promotional material, MEAA recommends attaching the crew AI rider to your contract.

Links to AI contract resources

• Voiceover AI rider
• All media AI rider
• Standard Equity voiceover contract including AI rider
• Standard Equity TVC contract
• Crew AI rider