ByteDance to Enhance AI Model Safeguards Following Hollywood Concerns

ByteDance, the creator behind TikTok, is stepping up efforts to enhance protections for its new AI video generator following accusations from major studios like Disney and Paramount, as well as various Hollywood trade organizations, claiming the tool infringes on copyright laws. The controversy erupted after hyperrealistic videos produced by the Seedance 2.0 model gained traction online, featuring the likenesses of well-known actors such as Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt, along with characters from popular franchises like Dragon Ball Z, Family Guy, and Pokémon.

A spokesperson for ByteDance acknowledged the concerns surrounding Seedance 2.0, stating, “ByteDance respects intellectual property rights and we have heard the concerns regarding Seedance 2.0. We are taking steps to strengthen current safeguards as we work to prevent the unauthorized use of intellectual property and likeness by users.”

This response follows formal complaints from major studios. Disney sent a cease and desist letter on Friday, accusing ByteDance of “hijacking” its protected characters by “reproducing, distributing, and creating derivative works” featuring them. Reports indicate that Paramount Skydance also issued a cease and desist, demanding the removal of all infringing content related to its properties and measures to prevent future occurrences.

Hollywood trade groups, including the Motion Picture Association (MPA) and the SAG-AFTRA talent union, have also expressed their concerns. MPA CEO Charles Rivkin criticized ByteDance for engaging in copyright infringement on a “massive scale,” claiming it undermines laws that support “millions of American jobs.” SAG-AFTRA highlighted that its members’ voices and likenesses have been utilized by Seedance 2.0 without permission, stating, “This is unacceptable and undercuts the ability of human talent to earn a livelihood. Seedance 2.0 disregards law, ethics, industry standards, and basic principles of consent. Responsible AI development demands responsibility, and that is nonexistent here.”