Kids Top 20 returns to TV with AI presenter, without disclaimer that “she” isn’t real
The children’s music program Kids Top 20 has returned on social media with a fully AI-generated presenter named Jess, with the creators not disclosing in a promotional Instagram video that the host is not a real person, NRC reports. The relaunch, led by music publisher CTM, has triggered debate over transparency, authenticity, and the use of artificial intelligence.
The show, which for 23 years was produced by AVROTROS and CTM and aired on NPO Zapp until last December, ended on Dutch public television after cuts to the NPO youth block. That block, which featured programs from multiple broadcasters, discontinued Kids Top 20 due to budget reductions.
The announcement video, which runs 16 seconds, introduces Jess, a completely AI-generated presenter. In the clip, there is no disclosure that she is not a real person.
Reactions quickly followed online. One viewer wrote: “Instead of hiring new talent, are you putting an AI presenter in?” CTM, the program’s maker, issued a statement addressing the relaunch and the circumstances surrounding the show’s return. “We are of course extremely disappointed that the popular music television program, which we created and produced for 23 years, was discontinued at the beginning of this year by AVROTROS due to budget cuts,” the statement said.
The company said it is still exploring how the program will continue. Within three months, CTM expects clarity on what final form Kids Top 20 will take.
“Moreover, we take into account the latest developments and trends that are popular within our target audience,” the makers said. “During this testing phase, we are very open to any form of criticism and other opinions.”
AVROTROS distanced itself from the new version, saying it is not involved in the current format. “CTM TV owns the rights to the program and has determined and implemented this new form and direction,” the broadcaster said.
Former presenter Matheu Hinzen, who left the program in December, said the AI host left him unsettled. “I had to look twice when I saw Jess. Where is this going? It is too perfect, and that should not be the intention of a youth program,” he said.
“We all use AI, of course, but creating a presenter with AI? I am not sure if that is a good move. Children watch it and then think she looks perfect. She has perfect skin, teeth, and hair. I think authenticity should be preserved in a youth program.”
Tessa Beinema, who researches responsible human digital interaction at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, said there may be potential in using an AI character, but cautioned against its impact on children. “I can imagine that on the one hand it is a nice way to create a character that appeals to children,” she said. “However, consideration must be given to the fact that children are not aware that Jess is not a real person.”
Beinema suggested making the presenter less realistic or clearly labeling the character as AI. “The biggest challenge is making it clear to children that it is not real.”
