Senators tell ByteDance to immediately shut down Seedance 2.0 AI video app
Mar 18th 2026
Two US senators told ByteDance to immediately shut down its Seedance 2.0 AI video generator, saying it undermines intellectual property and creators rights. ByteDance paused the rollout and pledged stronger safeguards as filmmakers and the Motion Picture Association pursue legal action and lawmakers push new protections.
- Senators Marsha Blackburn and Peter Welch demanded ByteDance immediately close Seedance 2.0, saying it threatens US intellectual property and creators rights.
- They cited AI examples including a Thanos versus Superman scene, a rewritten Stranger Things ending and fake Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt footage.
- ByteDance paused the app rollout and said it respects intellectual property while taking steps to strengthen safeguards.
- The Motion Picture Association and other filmmakers have sent cease and desist letters to ByteDance over the app.
- Senators unveiled legislation to give artists access to AI training records and other measures to protect creative works.
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- Senators tell ByteDance to shut down Seedance 2.0 AI video app 'immediately' www.engadget.com