Actress Charisma Carpenter recently expressed her concerns about the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the casting process and called for stronger protections for actors. In an Instagram post, Carpenter shared her skepticism regarding the AI casting process after receiving an email inviting her to join Largo.ai’s 100 Actors Program. The email promised direct connections with producers and suggested matching characters to actors automatically. While Largo.ai claims to provide valuable services for producers, Carpenter believes that AI lacks the personal touch and understanding necessary to make accurate casting decisions.
Carpenter criticized the AI casting process, describing it as ridiculous and emphasizing that AI systems lack the ability to truly understand the depth and richness of an actor’s experience, soul, and suitability for a particular role. While AI may rely on data and statistics to determine a person’s suitability for a role, Carpenter believes that the human connection and interactions with casting directors and agents are essential in building an actor’s career. Fellow actress Melanie Lynskey echoed Carpenter’s sentiments, noting that having intermediaries who believe in an actor and consider them for roles beyond what may seem like an exact fit is crucial for career development.
The Casting Society declined to comment on AI casting but pointed to online discussions that suggest the possibility of it being a scam. However, Largo.ai’s CEO, Sami Arpa, defended the platform, stating that it primarily serves producers, studios, and distributors. Arpa clarified that their AI system analyzes content during the development stage to provide feedback on various aspects, including story, casting, potential audience, and financial outcomes. The recent addition of a service for actors allows them to connect directly with producers, but Arpa insists that the platform is not a threat to casting directors or voice actors.
Despite the opportunities provided by Largo.ai, Carpenter remains unconvinced. She believes in the essential role that casting directors play in championing actors and finding the right fit for each role. Fans and industry professionals, including actor Jordan Gavaris, also expressed concerns about the potential impact of AI on the casting process. Carpenter values the personal touch and believes that AI will never be able to replicate the intuition, support, and advocacy of casting professionals.
The discussion surrounding AI casting raises important questions about the future of the industry and the balance between technology and human expertise. While AI may offer efficiency and convenience, it may struggle to capture the intangible qualities that make actors unique. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial to strike a balance that maximizes the benefits of technology while preserving the personal connections that drive successful casting decisions.
