Lady Gaga’s ‘Wednesday’ music video sparks viral AI doll controversy

Lady Gaga’s latest music video for “The Dead Dance,” featured in Netflix’s Wednesday Season 2 and directed by Tim Burton, has sparked a viral debate over alleged AI use—specifically around some creepy, moving dolls in the video.

Gaga, appearing as Rosaline Rotwood, debuted in the show on September 3, dressed in a ghostly white gothic gown with eerie makeup and a disembodied hand on her shoulder, fitting the show’s dark aesthetic. The black-and-white video complements Wednesday’s vibe perfectly, with Gaga dancing dramatically to the haunting chorus, “Dancing until I’m dead.”

The controversy began when a Twitter user accused the video of using AI animation for the dolls, pointing to oddly morphing doll hands during the chorus. The tweet went viral, gathering millions of views and sparking heated debate. While some fans agreed, many defended Gaga and Burton.

Official credits from The Roots Production Service, the video’s producer, list a VFX supervisor and a team behind the animation, confirming practical effects and studio work. Notably, Carlos Llergo, the line producer, responded directly to comments about AI dolls, saying the moving dolls were “animated in a VFX studio,” not AI-generated.

The video was filmed on-location at Mexico’s Island of the Dolls, adding to its authenticity. Director Tim Burton has openly criticized AI, calling it a “robot taking your humanity,” which aligns with the hands-on creative approach taken in this project.

Despite ongoing fan speculation, all signs point to The Dead Dance being a carefully crafted human production, free from AI animation. Gaga, Burton, and their team remain committed to delivering authentic artistry in this spooky, gothic collaboration.