Actor warns peers broad clauses could let production houses replicate their likeness, voice without consent
Renowned actor Faiza Hasan raised a crucial discussion for Pakistan’s entertainment fraternity, urging peers to review their contracts carefully before inadvertently signing away their digital likeness, voice, and image rights to production houses.
Hasan’s warning comes amid the rise of artificial intelligence, which is rapidly changing the landscape of global entertainment.
Taking to social media, Hasan issued a plea to fellow artists, urging them to safeguard their “AI rights” against overly broad production contracts. The actor stressed that local talent must choose between protecting their future digital identity and allowing it to be replicated with the click of a button.
In her video, Hasan spoke about thoroughly reviewing contracts and examining every aspect, particularly provisions concerning AI. Addressing fellow actors, Hasan said, “When you sign agreements with production houses, channels, or private producers, please read the contracts very carefully,” urging them to pay close attention to AI-related clauses.
Noting that some AI-related provisions have little to no relevance to either the work or the artists themselves, she added that such clauses may potentially lead to future legal disputes and contractual complications. “These clauses are being added without proper explanation, and frankly, some of them make no sense to me,” the actor remarked.
Urging fellow stars to seek legal advice or guidance from ACT (the Actors Collective of Pakistan) before signing future agreements, Hasan stated, “If you do not understand it, consult a lawyer or contact the actors’ association before signing. In my opinion, some of these AI clauses are absolutely not in our favour.”
The actor clarified that her remarks were not directed at any specific production house or television network, but were intended as a general awareness message aimed at safeguarding actors’ rights. Expanding on her concerns, Hasan wrote that the excessive use of AI technology as a replacement for actors in projects, including publicity materials and action sequences, could have a negative impact on the industry.
“The use of any actor’s likeness or voice needs to be used with consent and understanding of the nature, and for a specific time duration,” she wrote, emphasising that actors should remain cautious and ensure such clauses are not implemented without their understanding.
The actor’s message was received with gratitude and praise by fans and fellow celebrities alike.
Screengrab: FaaizaHassan/Instagram
Many expressed their agreement with the actor’s message and praised her for drawing attention to an issue that may potentially impact performers’ rights.
