AI Fuels the Writers Strike with Concerns for Job Security

How much threat does ChatGPT pose for writers; can it really change the entertainment industry?

Source: Los Angeles Times

TL;DR

• The Writers Guild of America (WGA), consisting of two labor unions representing over 11,000 writers in various media industries, went on strike on May 2nd. As stated in the WGA’s proposals, the strike aims to achieve higher pay, a dependable payment structure, and more fairness in deals, contracts, and regulations related to artificial intelligence.

• Writers have been picketing the headquarters of major studios including Netflix, Amazon, Warner Bros., Universal Studios, and others, brandishing signs and demanding higher wages. 

• Amongst the many demands regarding streaming residual, the document also discusses concerns stemming from the threat that AI poses to their profession. The writers want regulations in place to safeguard their future in the industry. 

• Advancements in AI, specifically large language models, are quite massive. While its exact impact on various domains and professions may yet be unclear, it is important to discuss AI regulations in the context of providing job security and mitigating negative impacts. 

What Happened

Roughly 11,500 TV and movie writers belonging to the Writers Guild of America (WGA) went on strike on May 2nd for the first time in 15 years after their negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) failed to reach a new contract. AMPTP represents eight major studios: Amazon, Apple, Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery, NBC Universal, Netflix, Paramount, and Sony along with many other producers and distributors.