An artificial intelligence (AI)-generated actress has amassed 400,000 followers on a leading social media platform in China within just two months, with a miniseries she stars in garnering an astonishing 250 million views.
The success of the virtual star Fang Taozi, who is claimed to be 20 years old, has sparked intense discussion and widespread anxiety within the industry regarding the potential replacement of human actors.
The drama The Laid-off Girl features Fang, a protagonist from a small town who moves to the bustling metropolis of Shangnan to chase her modelling dreams. The series chronicles her growth as she navigates a series of workplace challenges.
According to a report by AI-industry media AI Value, audiences are deeply fond of Fang due to her relatable image and personality that closely resemble those of a real person.
In contrast to other AI characters often depicted with flawless features, Fang possesses blemishes, pores, and wrinkles. Throughout the series, her make-up wears off after a day’s work. When she climbs stairs, beads of sweat emerge on her face, her hair becomes tangled, and her clothes display damp patches.