LayarHijau – iQIYI’s push into AI-powered content creation is drawing renewed attention after a number of actors were widely linked to a so-called database of around 100 “AI artists.”
Names such as Chen Zheyuan, Zhang Ruoyun, Wang Churan, and Li Yitong circulated online, prompting confusion among fans. Representatives for several of the actors have since pushed back, stating that they have never authorized the use of their likeness or voice for any AI-related projects.
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Amid the growing discussion, iQIYI issued an official clarification, addressing both the system itself and the circulating list of names.
The company refers to its initiative as AIGC (Artificial Intelligence Generated Content), a term used for film and television production that incorporates AI tools across various stages, including visuals, voice, and overall production workflows.
According to iQIYI, the large-scale artist database is part of a platform called the Nadou Pro Artist Library, designed to connect creators with actors for potential AI-based projects.
“An artist’s participation in the platform only indicates a willingness to explore AI-related collaborations. Whether they take part in a project, and in what form, must be negotiated separately for each case,” the company stated.
iQIYI emphasized that this process mirrors traditional film and drama production. Actors still review scripts, choose projects, and make decisions alongside their teams or agencies.
The company also pushed back against speculation that artists could be included without their knowledge. “There is no situation in which an artist is added to the system without their consent,” iQIYI said.
Beyond the clarification, iQIYI reiterated that its use of AI is intended to support, not replace, human creativity. The technology is positioned as a tool to lower production barriers and expand opportunities for creators.
iQIYI CEO Gong Yu echoed this stance, stressing that technology should always serve people. “Technology is meant to serve humans. It is never intended to replace them,” he said.
He added that AI is being used to better serve audiences while supporting creators across the industry. “The goal is to deliver more high-quality content to viewers, while helping creators—including actors—focus more on the creative process,” Gong Yu explained.
He also noted that AI could help scale the industry by attracting more creators and improving production efficiency, leading to a broader range of content.
As part of its long-term strategy, iQIYI said it will continue to prioritize three key principles: respecting the audience’s time, strengthening a younger perspective, and improving storytelling efficiency—ultimately aiming to deliver content that resonates emotionally with viewers.
With this clarification, iQIYI underscored that its AI artist database operates within a transparent, consent-based framework aligned with existing industry practices.
