Cherie DeVille is featured in a new Vox article examining the rise of AI-generated “thirst traps,” deepfakes and impersonator accounts, offering a performer’s perspective on how the technology is affecting creators and their businesses.
The feature, “Why Gay Guys Are Falling for AI Thirst Traps,” explores how AI-generated images and fake creator profiles can mislead fans while diverting attention, engagement and revenue away from legitimate performers. DeVille discusses the issue from firsthand experience, noting that impersonator accounts using manipulated versions of her likeness have complicated her online presence and redirected fans to fraudulent accounts.
While DeVille acknowledges AI’s potential, she argues that the larger issue is ownership and control over digital identities.
“If my income started tanking and their theft was at the point where I couldn’t compete with literally myself, there might be no choice but to retire,” DeVille told Vox.
The article places DeVille at the center of an ongoing conversation about likeness rights, creator protection and the legal questions surrounding AI-generated content. Rather than opposing the technology itself, she advocates for a future where performers retain control over how their digital likenesses are used and compensated.
“It would be a beautiful way to extend my career beyond what my knees can take,” DeVille said, describing the possibilities of ethical, creator-controlled AI.
The full feature, “Why Gay Guys Are Falling for AI Thirst Traps,” is available now from Vox.
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