Archive · 18 Dec 2025
British Actors Vote Against On-Set Digital Scans
British actors have voted to say no to being scanned digitally on film and TV sets.
This is because they are worried about their data being used to train AI without their permission.
A big group of actors, called Equity, asked its members if they would refuse these scans to get better protection from AI.
Almost everyone, 99%, said yes.
This vote is not legally binding, but it shows that actors are serious about wanting rules to protect them from AI.
The union will use this vote to talk to the people who make films and TV shows, asking for better rules.
The makers say they already have good rules, but the actors want even more protection.
If they can't agree, there might be a strike.
British actors voted 99% in favor of refusing digital scans on sets to secure AI protections.
Equity union's indicative ballot had a 75% turnout, showing strong member support.
Current UK agreements lack AI references, with only a holding clause in Equity's BBC deal.
Equity seeks AI protections beyond existing global standards, while Pact offers terms consistent with international safeguards.
Strike action is not ruled out if negotiations with Pact fail to yield adequate AI protections.
- Who
- British actors and Equity union
- What
- Vote to refuse digital scans on film/TV sets
- When
- Ballot held, exact date not specified
- Where
- United Kingdom
- Why
- To secure AI protections in contracts
- Union
- Equity
- Vote Percentage
- 99%
- Ballot Turnout
- 75%
- Current Agreement
- No AI reference in UK Pact-Equity agreement
- Equity's Stance
- Seeking AI protections in contracts
- Pact's Response
- Offers terms consistent with global standards
- Potential Action
- Strike action not ruled out
- Negotiation Status
- Stalemate after 18 months of talks