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The Madison Avenue Field GuideA field guide to marketing & advertising, by Brandon Mina

GlossaryAI Search & EmergingSynthetic Performer

AI Search & Emerging

Synthetic Performer

An AI-generated person used in an ad; New York began requiring advertisers to disclose synthetic performers in June 2026.

By Brandon MinaCEO, BrandPilot AIUpdated November 2026

Short answer

A synthetic performer is an AI-generated person used in an advertisement, appearing as an actor, model, or spokesperson without being a real individual. New York began requiring advertisers to disclose synthetic performers in June 2026. Brands using them must consider disclosure rules, audience trust, and the rights of any real people they resemble.