Central Casting responds to online discussions regarding its likeness deal; Indicates that the requirement is old and intended for internal marketing use only.

EXCLUSIVE: Central Casting responds about its 20-year-old photo posting form, which has suddenly has angered SAG-AFTRA members who fear that background actors are giving up control of their digital image.

At a time when SAG-AFTRA and WGA have legitimate concerns about the increased use of AI and generative technologies in Hollywood, the cast bristled at the language of the agreement, which Central Casting requires of anyone who relies on their services for employment. Central Casting specializes in the casting of extras, stunt doubles and stand-ins.

The cast shared screenshots of the deal on X, along with disclaimers< em>no to sign it. Here's what the agreement says: "I authorize Central Casting to photograph, videotape, or use any other electronic method of recording my likeness, appearance, voice, or actions (collectively, "Recordings") ) to be used at Central Casting's discretion. in any medium, including, without limitation, Company-related publications and websites,” the agreement reads. “I grant Central Casting the unrestricted right to create, copyright, use, reuse or publish any recordings in which I may be included, in whole or in part, and I waive any any right to inspect or approve finished media incorporating recordings. »

"I release and agree to release Central Casting from any liability for any lawful use and waive any personal liability or proprietary right that I may have in connection with such use. I understand that all such recordings, regardless of medium, shall remain the property of Central Casting. I waive any right to compensation of any nature whatsoever in relation to the recordings.”

Once reached by Deadline, Central Casting hinted via a company statement that it There was nothing new in the deal, nor is the company looking to abandon its primary mission: to find entry-level work for emerging players.

"For nearly 100 years, Central Casting has been the leader in casting background actors for film and television productions. The company's photo release form, which has been in use for more than 20 years, allows the use of recorded background actor images for review by Central Casting clients for casting purposes,” the report says. communicated. “It also allows the images to be used on Central Casting’s website and in its marketing materials. The Photo Release Form does not apply to production companies or their businesses. »

Reactions to ing: "Do you seriously ask your employees to grant you unlimited use of their image , without any restrictions? extra compensation?!" while casting director Alexis Winter ensures that "no one is signing this fucking thing. The scary thing is that it doesn't just stop at Central Casting. Casting owns this image and is considered your employer, they may sell this image to anyone wishing to use it, which includes any production they are hired for."

Even a member of the SAG-AFTRA bargaining committee spoke out on X saying that such a decision was "not approved". by the guild and encourage...