The AI debate in the United Kingdom has recently gained momentum. Sara Poyzer, a prominent actress known for her role in the musical Mamma Mia!, took to social media to express her disappointment after being replaced by artificial intelligence (AI) for a BBC production. Poyzer posted a screenshot of an email she received, which stated that the BBC had approved the use of an AI-generated voice, making her presence unnecessary. While the specific details of the production were not disclosed, Poyzer's heartfelt reaction, accompanied by a sad face emoji, highlighted the sobering nature of this development. The news garnered attention from industry professionals, including Miltos Yerolemou, who portrayed Syrio Forel in Game of Thrones.

Yerolemou called for British actors and creatives to take a stand against this trend, drawing inspiration from their American counterparts who have already begun resisting the use of AI. Voice Squad, a voiceover agency that collaborates with Poyzer, expressed disappointment in the production company's decision, particularly considering the project's affiliation with the BBC. They emphasized that AI poses a threat to the entire industry, as it takes away opportunities from artists who have undergone years of training and dedicated themselves to their craft. Equity, the labor union, launched a campaign named "Stop AI Stealing the Show" in 2022, with support from the BBC. Responding to viewer complaints, the BBC announced this week that it would discontinue using AI to promote Doctor Who. BBC Director General Tim Davie stated that the broadcaster would approach AI implementation proactively, while ensuring it aligns with their terms, supports rightsholders, maintains human creative control, and upholds editorial standards. The BBC is currently collaborating with major tech companies on BBC-specific pilots to explore the most promising applications of AI, which will be deployed in the coming months.