The Rising Concerns of AI in Hollywood: A Tug of War Between Actors and Studios
The question, “How many actors are required to produce movies and shows?” is taking on a new dimension in Hollywood. The Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), representing 160,000 striking members, fears that the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) could significantly reduce the number of acting jobs. AI could replace actors in Hollywood.
The Controversy Surrounding AI and Virtual Performances
The use of computer-generated imagery (CGI) is a familiar practice in Hollywood. It’s often used to create virtual actors. However, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has changed the game. AI has made CGI more accessible and cost-effective. This development has sparked concerns among actors about job security. SAG-AFTRA, the actors’ union, argues that studios are eager to use AI. They believe AI could replace human actors. This fear is amplified by the growing presence of AI-generated deepfakes on social media.
The Dispute Over AI Use and Job Security
The ongoing negotiations between actors and major studios have hit a roadblock over the use of AI. The Alliance of Motion Pictures and Television Producers (AMPTP) asserts that its proposal offers new AI protections for actors. However, the union believes that the threat to jobs is real and that the studios’ assurances are insufficient.
The Unlikelihood of an Absolute AI Ban
Experts suggest that an outright ban on AI is unlikely. Instead, the focus will likely be on establishing rules for AI use and setting minimum compensation for actors whose voices or images are manipulated using AI.
The Rapid Advancement of AI Technology
The swift advancement of AI technology is complicating the negotiation process. Crafting a set of guidelines that won’t become obsolete in a short time due to technological advancements is a significant challenge.
The Future Impact of AI on Labor Negotiations
The impact of AI on job security extends beyond acting and writing jobs. The ongoing negotiations highlight the broader issue of AI’s potential to automate millions of jobs globally, making it a critical topic in future labor negotiations.
In a nutshell, the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike and the negotiations surrounding it serve as a stark reminder of the potential implications of AI on job security. As AI continues to evolve, its impact on various industries, including film and television, will undoubtedly remain a hot topic and especially AI in Hollywood. The outcome of these negotiations could set a precedent for future labor talks in an increasingly AI-driven world.
