U.K. Writers Decry ITV’s Plan to Use AI to Generate Show Ideas: ‘They Would Be Better Off Investing in Screenwriters Rather Than Gimmicks’
variety.comK.J. Yossman U.K. public service broadcaster ITV has come under fire after a job advert for a “head of generative AI innovation” went viral.
The advert, which was posted on LinkedIn as well as other job sites, says the role will include spearheading “AI-driven innovations in content creation for TV shows, films, and digital-first content across ITV Studios and ITVX” and implementing tools like “AI-generated ideation, character development, and enhanced production graphics.” The chosen candidate, who will be based in London, will be paid up to £95,000 ($124,000) per year with the potential for an annual bonus and “generous” vacation allowance to boot.
Television writers have reacted with outrage to the job posting, however. In a statement, Ellie Peers, general secretary for the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain (WGGB), said: “We were shocked to hear that ITV are intending to bring in an AI expert to replace writers and other creators.
There’s no shortage of story ideas out there, though sadly there appears to be an unwillingness to pay for them. If the broadcaster has a spare £95,000, they would be better off investing in screenwriters rather than gimmicks.
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