More than 4,000 French actors have signed an open letter condemning the growing use of artificial intelligence tools in film, television and advertising, calling it an “organized plundering” of performers’ work and identities. Among the signatories are Bérénice Bejo, Léa Drucker and Swann Arlaud.
The petition, backed by Adami, France’s collective management organization for performers’ rights, argues that actors are already facing unauthorized voice cloning, image scraping and licensing agreements that undervalue their contributions. The letter describes AI as a “devouring hydra” when deployed without meaningful safeguards, warning that its unchecked use threatens both livelihoods and artistic integrity.
According to the signatories, the issue is not hypothetical. They point to cases in which actors have been offered minimal compensation to authorize the AI use of their image in advertising campaigns, sums that would replace days of paid filming. In one cited example, a performer was reportedly offered €250 to allow an AI-generated version of his likeness to be used by a major French brand, effectively substituting for two days of on-set work.
Voice cloning has become another area of dispute. Earlier this month, eight French dubbing actors, known for providing the French voices of international stars and major animated characters, formally demanded that two AI companies, VoiceDub and Fish Audio, remove models replicating their voices. The performers also sought €20,000 in damages, alleging unauthorized exploitation.
The letter emphasizes that lesser-known actors are particularly exposed. Without the bargaining power of established names, many feel pressured to accept contracts granting broad AI rights in order to secure employment. The signatories argue that no performer should be forced to relinquish control over their digital likeness or voice.
The appeal comes as the European Union rolls out its Artificial Intelligence Act, legislation that introduces transparency requirements for certain AI systems. However, the framework does not yet provide specific protections addressing performers’ likenesses, biometric data or voice replication. French actors are urging lawmakers to strengthen national measures to ensure AI systems respect copyright and related rights.
Adami’s support underscores the scale of concern within the French entertainment sector. Performers contend that without clear legal boundaries, AI-driven replication could permanently reshape their profession, reducing opportunities and weakening negotiating power.
The letter does not reject technological innovation outright. Instead, it calls for enforceable standards that allow AI to coexist with creative work while protecting artists’ rights. For the signatories, the issue is urgent: the technology is advancing quickly, and contracts granting digital usage rights are already becoming commonplace.
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