TMI Show Ep 233: “Death to the AI Actress”

Eline Van der Velden, creator of “AI actress” Tilly Norwood, addresses the massive backlash after revealing that Hollywood agents want to sign the digital character created by the studio Xicoia. “Norwood” is trying to position AI as a creative tool akin to animation or CGI that enhances storytelling without replacing human actors—but CGI replaces human actors and so does animation. Backlash surges from actors like Melissa Barrera, Kiersey Clemons, Mara Wilson, and Lukas Gage, who decry ethical issues in compositing faces and urge boycotts of the interested agencies.

Plus:

• Portland Occupied: Trump directs the Pentagon to send US troops to Portland, Oregon, supposedly targeting “Antifa” to protect ICE gulags amid massive demonstrations that occasionally turn violent when the police start riots with tear gas deployments and assaulting protesters. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek rejects federal intervention, refusing National Guard requests as local cops limit cooperation in the sanctuary city to vandalism and violence only. Trump expands military presence nationwide, deploying over 6,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles and Washington, DC, with 150 more heading to Memphis.

• Taliban Frees American: The Taliban frees US citizen Amir Amiry from Afghan detention, fulfilling a prisoner exchange agreement with US envoys aimed at normalizing relations, facilitated by Qatar's mediation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio hails the release, though others like Mahmood Habibi remain held despite assurances of a comprehensive deal. Afghanistan grapples with economic crises post-earthquake, fueling Trump's push to retake Bagram airbase amid a lack of international aid.

• Eric Adams Gets the Message: New York City Mayor drops out of the mayoral race, blaming media speculation and withheld matching campaign funds that cripple fundraising. His exit narrows Mamdani's lead slightly as supporters reallocate votes, yet the democratic socialist still enjoys a commanding lead based on reshaping city policies on affordability, crime, and ties to Trump and Democrats.