Renowned British documentarian Louis Theroux delivered a thought-provoking speech at the 2023 Edinburgh TV Festival, where he expressed both excitement and concern about the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the industry. He acknowledged the valid concerns expressed by writers who worry about robots cannibalizing their creativity. Theroux emphasized the importance of responsible reporting, particularly in an era where extremist groups like the manosphere, conspiracy communities, and the far-right hold significant influence.
As the presenter of the 2023 James MacTaggart Memorial Lecture, joining the ranks of notable speakers like Rupert Murdoch, Ted Turner, Michaela Coel, and Armando Iannucci, Theroux stressed the need for the TV industry to be mindful of the changing times and heightened stakes. He urged the industry to report responsibly on these issues and avoid approaches that are overly serious, lacking nuance, or unable to fully understand their subjects.
Reflecting on his more than 20 years in the industry, Theroux noted the transformation from the traditional media landscape to the de-hierarchized media world that now exists, where anyone with an internet connection can challenge established news networks like CNN. Throughout his career, Theroux has relied on his own curiosity and fear as his “guiding light.”
He explained how worry and fear are integral to his work, stating that if he feels queasy approaching a subject, it signifies that he is engaging with risky work that raises difficult moral questions. Embracing fear and taking risks, according to Theroux, is essential to fulfilling his responsibilities as a documentarian.
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When discussing the potential for AI to take over his domain of documentaries, Theroux dismissed his fears. While he acknowledged the impressive results that AI can produce, such as writing passable sitcoms, action movies, and even a James MacTaggart Memorial Lecture, he believes AI lacks the ability to take risks. This is because risk involves danger, and machines do not possess the capability to experience real feelings like humiliation, embarrassment, or failure.
Theroux’s address at the Edinburgh TV Festival shed light on the complexities surrounding the integration of AI in the industry. While AI may enhance productivity and creativity, it does raise valid concerns about the potential loss of human touch and the ability to take risks rooted in genuine emotions.
As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, Theroux’s speech serves as a reminder to prioritize responsible reporting and to approach new technologies like AI with a critical eye. The human element, with its flaws, emotions, and vulnerability, remains an essential component of storytelling and creative endeavors that cannot be replicated by machines.
Ultimately, Theroux’s reflections at the Edinburgh TV Festival inspire us to embrace curiosity, tackle difficult subjects, and embrace the risks and uncertainties inherent in the pursuit of creative and thought-provoking content. By doing so, we ensure that the human spirit remains at the heart of the entertainment industry, even in an era of advancing technology.
