Netflix CEO assures that artificial intelligence will not replace human workers, with one caveat.

Amidst the ongoing discussion about the implementation of artificial intelligence in Hollywood, Ted Sarandos, co-CEO of Netflix, has shared his prediction that AI will not result in job loss. However, this was not the only statement he made on the matter.

In recent months, there has been a lot of discussion surrounding the use of AI in entertainment, from studios creating digital versions of deceased actors to accusations of Netflix’s What Jennifer Did altering photos of Jennifer Pan. This topic has sparked heated debates among many.

A major concern is that it could result in job loss for human creatives, a topic that was brought up during the Late Night With the Devil’s AI controversy and the now-resolved actors and writers strikes.

In the midst of chaos, Sarandos has addressed concerns by stating that AI will not result in job loss in the industry. However, he did caution that individuals utilizing AI could potentially lead to this outcome.

During an interview with The New York Times, the Netflix CEO stated, “I truly believe in the potential of humans. I have faith in them.”

“I am skeptical of the idea that an AI program can produce a screenplay superior to that of a talented writer, or that it can replace a remarkable performance, or that we will be unable to distinguish between the two. In my opinion, AI will not eliminate job opportunities. Instead, it is the individual who effectively utilizes AI that may potentially take over a job position.”

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos doesn’t think AI will steal jobs

Before this, when questioned about the potential impact of this technology, Sarandos stated, “I believe that AI is simply a natural progression of the developments already taking place in the creative realm.”

Despite the rise of volume stages, on-location shooting remains prevalent. Writers, directors, and editors are utilizing AI as a means to enhance their work and increase efficiency and effectiveness. In the most ideal scenario, this technology allows for the inclusion of elements onscreen that would otherwise be unattainable.

Despite Sarandos’ optimistic perspective, his remarks have not been well received on the internet. On X/Twitter, a user expressed, “I am not a fan of the concept of using AI in art, it gives off a strange feeling.”

Another individual commented, “The phrase ‘do their jobs better’ is just a cover-up for using AI without considering our opinions, all for the sake of cutting costs. Cheaper does not necessarily mean better.”

“A third person expressed that these shows are about to get worse than they already are, while a fourth person joked, “Easy for you to say, you don’t have to worry about it.”

Although some may disagree with his outlook, there are still those who support it. For instance, one person who commented stated, “I understand this may be a controversial opinion, but I believe he is completely right.”

“The post-production cycle in the industry is increasingly focused on editing and VFX, with an emphasis on cost-efficiency. With the need for more budget-friendly movies, the implementation of AI technology is expected to aid in this goal.”