Ryan Reynolds Taps Real Woman in Ad to Address AI Controversy

LOS ANGELES, CA — Ryan Reynolds has taken a humorous approach to the AI actress debate in a new advertisement for Mint Mobile. The Deadpool star appears alongside Natalie “Tilly” Norwood, a real person sharing a name with a viral AI-generated actress, in the ad that promotes Mint Mobile’s new 5G Home Internet service.

The commercial, produced by Reynolds’ company Maximum Effort, showcases their latest offering, priced at $30 per month. In the 30-second spot, Reynolds presents Norwood as a “real Mint customer,” lightening the conversation around the contentious topic of artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry. Earlier this year, the AI version of Norwood, created by Eline Van der Velden, sparked significant conversation about whether AI could replace human talent.

Reynolds introduces Norwood, asking, “You are real, right?” to which she answers, “I’m a combination of my parents.” The ad plays on the controversy, confirming that the internet deal is meant only for “carbon-based organisms.”

The rise of AI actress Tilly Norwood has triggered backlash in Hollywood. Reports earlier this year that talent agencies were interested in representing the AI performer created a stir among actors and filmmakers. Nicholas Alexander Chavez openly dismissed the AI actress model, stating, “Not an actress nice try.” Meanwhile, Mara Wilson raised concerns about the ethics of using real women’s features to create AI characters.

With this ad, Reynolds contributes to the ongoing debate while promoting a service that aims to benefit real customers.