Actress Cate Blanchett has co-founded the organization RSL Media to establish control over the use of creative works, names, appearances, and images of individuals by artificial intelligence (AI).
The launch of the initiative was announced concurrently with the presentation of the RSL Human Consent Standard, a free public registry set to go live in June 2026. This service aims to formalize the process for granting permission to use creative materials and personal data in AI systems.
Prominent industry figures such as Javier Bardem, George Clooney, Viola Davis, Tom Hanks, Helen Mirren, Steven Soderbergh, Kristen Stewart, Meryl Streep, and Emma Thompson have expressed their support for the initiative.
The organization operates on the principle that AI’s use of human creativity and likenesses should only occur with the consent of the author or individual. Representatives of the initiative stated that AI currently uses works, voices, and images without proper permission, and that the mechanisms for obtaining consent in these technologies lack transparency.
Cate Blanchett emphasized that AI development is proceeding with minimal oversight or regulation, asserting that user consent should be a fundamental factor in the process.
“Artificial intelligence technologies are expanding rapidly, lacking control or regulation. If humanity is to stay ahead of these technologies, consent must be the foremost condition,” she remarked.
Blanchett also described RSL Media as the first practical tool that provides control over the use of works by AI systems, not only for public figures but also for the general population.
The system will allow creators and individuals to independently set rules for how AI can use their materials — from a complete prohibition to permission under certain conditions — via an intuitive traffic-light-style control format. Additionally, a universal format for recognizing and respecting user consents in AI operations is under development.
Earlier this year, Cate Blanchett, along with more than 700 artists, supported a campaign against the uncontrolled use of copyrighted materials by technology companies. Notable participants included Scarlett Johansson and Joseph Gordon-Levitt.
Emma Thompson, commenting on the launch of RSL Media, highlighted the initiative’s relevance to collaboration between artists and AI, emphasizing the need for responsible regulation.
Director Steven Soderbergh praised the project as a transparent and reliable solution to a complex issue, noting its importance for all industry participants.
Helen Mirren emphasized the critical distinction between inspiration and copying in creativity, underscoring the importance of protecting intellectual property.
At present, users can reserve their own consent ID and join the system as trusted partners. After the official registry launch in June, they will be able to verify their identity, set rules for usage of their works and likenesses, and access additional control tools.