Steven Spielberg Says He Has Never Used AI in His Films

Steven Spielberg says he has never used AI in his films, stressing the importance of human creativity in Hollywood amid growing debates about artificial intelligence in filmmaking.

Legendary filmmaker Steven Spielberg has taken a clear stance in the ongoing debate about artificial intelligence in Hollywood. Speaking at the SXSW 2026 in Austin, the Oscar-winning director said he has never used AI in any of his films, emphasizing that creativity in filmmaking should remain a human-driven process.

During a panel discussion, Spielberg explained that while artificial intelligence can be valuable in many industries, he does not support its use when it replaces human creativity in film and television production. The director stressed that storytelling, screenwriting, and artistic decision-making should remain in the hands of people rather than machines.

Spielberg noted that even in television writers’ rooms, there should not be an “empty chair with a laptop” doing the job of a human writer. His comments drew applause from the audience, highlighting ongoing concerns within the entertainment industry about AI potentially replacing creative professionals.

The discussion comes at a time when artificial intelligence tools are increasingly being explored across Hollywood. Major streaming companies and startups are investing in AI technologies that can assist with editing, visual effects, and production workflows. However, Spielberg believes that these tools should not override the human imagination that drives filmmaking.

Over the decades, Spielberg has directed some of the most influential movies in cinema history, including Jurassic Park and A.I. Artificial Intelligence. Despite his films often exploring futuristic technology, the director says his creative process remains firmly rooted in human collaboration and artistry.

His comments reflect a broader conversation in the film industry about the role of artificial intelligence in Hollywood filmmaking and whether AI tools should assist or replace human creators in movies. As AI adoption grows, debates about authorship, originality, and ethics in filmmaking are expected to intensify.

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