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synthetic performer
also AI synthetic performer or synthetic actor or AI actor
Definition of synthetic performer
-
: a digitally created humanlike performer generated with AI that appears to act or present content but is not the recognizable replica of a particular real performer
- The advertisement disclosed that its spokesperson was a synthetic performer rather than a filmed actor.
- The contract treats a synthetic performer differently from a digital replica based on a named actor's face or voice.
Two meanings, one word
In everyday English
A performer is a person who acts, sings, speaks, dances, or otherwise appears before an audience.
In AI
A digitally created humanlike performer generated with AI that appears to act or present content but is not the recognizable replica of a particular real performer.
Origin & history
Synthetic performer became a defined AI labor term in the 2023 SAG-AFTRA television and theatrical agreement, which distinguished a wholly synthetic person from a digital replica of an identifiable performer. The wording later appeared in union guidance, entertainment reporting, and disclosure laws for AI-generated people in advertising.
Editorial references
Sources & further reading
- Artificial Intelligence Resources↗ Official Labor Guidance · SAG-AFTRA · 2023
- Terms to Know↗ Official Glossary · SAG-AFTRA · 2024-05-07
- Ads in New York must now label AI-generated synthetic performers↗ Independent Reporting · AP News · 2026-06-09
Test yourself
Which of these is the meaning of synthetic performer?
Cite this entry
"Synthetic performer." AI Dictionary, Dadgogo, https://dadgogo.com/dictionary/synthetic-performer/. Accessed 16 Oct. 2026.