HBO’s CEO and Chairman, Casey Bloys, addressed the ongoing Writers Guild of America strike at a recent Variety TV FYC event. He weighed in on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the creative process and expressed his aversion to it. Bloys stated that while he understands the importance of being aware of the future, he does not want AI to be involved in any of the shows developed by HBO.
Bloys added that HBO doesn’t use pilots to decide whether or not to pick up a show, and that AI‘s involvement in development or creative process isn’t a part of the shows he works on. He further joked that if AI did become a part of the industry, he hopes to be retired by then.
While some creators have experimented with AI, such as Black Mirror writer Charlie Brooker, who used ChatGPT, Brooker revealed that the final outcomes were less than impressive. ChatGPT was used to create an episode of the hit show, but ultimately produced a piece that was a mush of previous synopses.
Brooker added that the AI experience did benefit him as he was reminded of his reliance on the same theme of being inside a computer in past episodes. Therefore, he made efforts to change the direction of future storylines.
It remains to be seen if the use of AI will result in a revolution in television writing or if it will become a mere niche area with little impact. For now, Bloys remains content with the current process at HBO, and Brooker is happy to continue ignoring the rules to create compelling content for viewers.
