Channel 4 has commission a Deepfake Queen for this year’s alternative Christmas message

While Her Majesty will be available in 4K HDR this year, Channel 4 has commissioned a stark warning about the advanced technology that is enabling the proliferation of misinformation and fake news in a digital age. What starts as a plausible address to the nation, takes a turn for the surreal via a Tik Tok style dance routine, and honest views on Harry and Meghan. The Deepfake Queen is voiced by Debra Stephenson and was created by VFX Studio Framestore. The script is by James Kettle.

Of the project, Channel 4 Director of Programmes Ian Katz said:

“Deepfake technology is the frightening new frontier in the battle between misinformation and truth. This year’s Alternative Christmas Address – seemingly delivered by one of the most familiar and trusted figures in the nation – is a powerful reminder that we can no longer trust our own eyes.”

The four minute broadcast acts as a preamble to a programme scheduled for December 28, when the Dispatches documentary Deepfakes: Can You Believe Your Eyes explores new statistics showing how the world is being bombarded with fake content. Reporter Morland Sanders asks how these fake videos and images have changed the world. He also learns how to make one, finds out how not to be fooled into believing everything you see.

You can read more about the Deepfake Queen and read the full transcript of the Alternative Christmas Message here.