Will generative AI reshape TV shows and movies?

Writers Guild of America East members walking a picket line on May 16, 2023, in New York City. The looming danger is that studios will turn to generative AI for scripts. — AFP

Much has been said about the prime time schedule recently unveiled by US broadcaster ABC. In 21 hours of TV programming, long-time favourites such as Grey’s Anatomy and recent hits like The Rookie were nowhere to be found, and there were no new scripted shows introduced.

Instead, the network filled its schedule with 20 hours of nonscripted programming, including reality shows, Disney movie reruns, and American football. They reserved only one hour a week for reruns of Abbot Elementary, last year’s hit comedy series. In essence, they are offering no new scripted shows.