As tech companies warn of existential AI threats, Hollywood’s biggest unions remain unconvinced. According to the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and Writers Guild of America East (WGAE), entertainment-focused AI is a far cry from the dangerous systems that could wipe out humanity.

However, these unions are vigilant about the potential job loss from AI. SAG-AFTRA’s chief negotiator, Duncan Crabtree Ireland, believes his union’s early warnings and strict rules around AI use helped prevent a rapid adoption of AI replacing human actors.

Crabtree-Ireland acknowledges the broader societal concerns but doubts the extinction-level threat warnings. He describes tech oligarchs' push for AI as reckless and dishonest, echoing Coxon’s concerns about AI safety.

The SAG-AFTRA’s strategy during the strike was to clearly communicate the risks and steps to mitigate them, ensuring that studios gain permission and compensate actors for AI-generated content. This approach prevented a faster, more extensive adoption of digital replication.

Hollywood’s cautious approach underscores the need for a balanced view on AI. While it could disrupt jobs, it’s far from the apocalyptic scenarios painted by tech whistleblowers.