Actors and Writers Strikes Create Perfect Storm for AI Use in Hollywood

The ongoing strikes of Hollywood actors and writers are shaping a unique moment for the potential implementation of artificial intelligence (AI). Both groups’ fear and actions have created a near “perfect storm” for introducing AI into the industry. 

Writers are concerned about AI’s potential to replace them and having to edit AI-written scripts. The introduction of AI — as well as other factors — may reduce the number of writers on films and TV shows and result in more work being required for the same or less pay. Actors are also concerned about being replaced — and about having their likenesses scanned and reused in the future. Thus, both groups’ concerns are less about AI technology than what AI could potentially allow studios to do. 

Unfortunately, the absence of working writers and actors coupled with the continuous demand for content to keep subscribers paying for streaming services is actually a recipe for trying AI replacements. Studios now have comparatively little to lose — and a lot to gain. 

Even when studios embrace AI, actors and writers won’t necessarily be out of work. Nor do they need to be relegated to low-paying jobs while studios rake in more money due to the savings. Both groups need to adapt; this is the perfect time. 

The key to both groups’ success lies in connecting with the audience. Actors, for instance, can bring a fan base to shows. Many actors already do this. The effective jump of some YouTube influencers to movie and TV roles shows how effective and enticing this can be. While there are a limited number of examples of AI influencers, AI can’t go to conventions or connect with people on a human-to-human level. An actor with a following cannot be readily replaced by an AI — even one that looks like the actor, which may offend the fans and lead to a backlash against the studio. 

For writers, there are two potential pathways to success. One is to become skilled at running the AI itself: getting it to produce high-quality scripts and performing final edits. The other is to be an essential resource for ideas for shows and plot points that people want to watch. Notably, if other production elements are reduced or replaced by AI, the writer's role — as the creator or operator of the fictional universe — may grow.   

The key thing — for both actors and writers — is to adapt to the new technology. Throughout history, there has been repeated concern about the impact of new technologies on numerous industries and jobs. While a period of adjustment may be needed — and some jobs may be eliminated or changed while others are created — the advancement of technology has been tremendously beneficial for humanity. It has increased our standard of living, improved access to necessities and luxuries, and created surpluses beyond what is needed for basic survival, allowing society to have resources to devote to entertainment. 

Thus, while change may be difficult in the short term, we are all wise to embrace it and position ourselves for the world it ushers in.

Hollywood has always had a role in helping us do this by envisioning what the future could be. This is an excellent time to use these creative energies to re-imagine the entertainment industry itself. The solution to some of the industry's challenges may be to do new revenue opportunities, such as immersive experiences, which may be the next blockbuster opportunity. Could the next Mission Impossible allow theatergoers to be part of the action? Might a moviegoer be willing to pay more to be in the role of Tom Cruise’s Ethan Hunt? It’s time to stop the business model reruns and sequels and innovate. 

Instead of trying to limit AI use through contracts or regulations, it’s time for some original thought on how AI can enhance entertainment (and numerous other industries). Studios, actors, and writers all can have a crucial role in — and benefit tremendously from — doing so. 

Jeremy Straub is an assistant professor in the North Dakota State University computer science department, an NDSU Challey Institute faculty fellow, and director of the NDSU Institute for Cyber Security Education and Research. The opinions presented are his own.