EastEnders star Jake Wood, best known for playing Max Branning on the BBC One soap, has issued a public apology following accusations that he used artificial intelligence to create pieces in his recent art exhibition.
Exhibition Sparks Controversy
The 53-year-old actor unveiled an exhibition titled Icons at the Indelible Fine Art Gallery in Jew Street, Brighton. The collection features portraits of well-known figures, including David Attenborough and Dame Barbara Windsor. However, several observers alleged that Wood employed AI tools to assist in producing the artwork, prompting a backlash.
Jake Wood's Statement
Taking to Instagram, Wood addressed the controversy directly. He wrote: “I think it’s important to address some of the discussion surrounding my exhibition currently on display at Indelible Fine Art Gallery. Whilst I acknowledge that two of the images featured in the exhibition, Attenborough and Trump, incorporated AI-generated source imagery, these images were not personally generated by me and already existed prior to being used within the works.”
He explained that these particular pieces were created in 2024 and were not originally intended for the exhibition. “Since then I have not used AI within my artworks and do not intend to moving forward. I understand the concerns and wider debate around AI in art, and I respect the opinions being expressed.”
Wood described himself as a “relatively new artist” and noted that this period has been part of his creative development. “Inevitably, that journey involves learning, evolving and making mistakes along the way. I would like to apologise to the gallery for any negative commentary directed towards them.” He praised the gallery as a “brilliant small independent gallery in Brighton” that supported the exhibition in good faith, with the goal of raising awareness and funds for Dementia UK.
Profits Donated to Charity
Wood expressed sadness that the conversation had shifted focus away from the charitable cause. “I am really sad that the conversation around the exhibition has shifted in this direction and may have taken attention away from the cause and the wider intentions behind the show. Raising awareness of dementia and supporting Dementia UK remain incredibly important to me and, following the recent discussion, 100% of my profits from the exhibition will be donated to the charity.”
In a follow-up comment on his personal Instagram account, Wood reiterated: “As I have said, as a new artist I have made mistakes. Important thing is to learn from them. Intention was always to raise awareness and money for @dementia_uk.”
Community Reaction
The statement has drawn mixed reactions from fans and art critics. Some have praised Wood for his transparency and commitment to charity, while others remain skeptical about the use of AI in art. The exhibition continues at the Indelible Fine Art Gallery, with all proceeds now going to Dementia UK.
