Key facts
- Actors are losing acting jobs to AI in the micro-drama industry.
- Production companies are using AI to reduce costs, with some startups offering shows for $1,000 to $3,000.
- The trend is impacting actors who relied on micro dramas for income.
- The broader film and television industry is also beginning to incorporate AI performers.
- Concerns exist about the emotional believability and authenticity of AI-generated performances.
Actors are facing job displacement in the burgeoning micro-drama industry due to the increasing use of artificial intelligence. Young actors like Hannah Lowery, Blake Manning, and Faith Orta have reported losing roles to AI, which production companies are adopting for significant cost savings. Startups such as TrueShort and StoReel are producing short-form series for mobile viewing at a fraction of the cost of human-led productions. TrueShort claims to make 20- to 30-minute shows for $1,000 to $3,000, while StoReel offers hourlong series for $20,000 to $40,000. In China, where micro dramas, also known as "verticals," first gained popularity, a substantial portion of work has already shifted to AI, with the sector expected to generate billions in revenue. This trend is causing concern among actors who rely on these roles for income, especially as traditional film and TV production has seen a slump. The broader Hollywood industry is also grappling with AI, with the actors' union SAG-AFTRA negotiating limitations on the use of synthetic performers. While some AI-generated performances are improving, critics note issues with emotional believability and consistency, though some viewers express a preference for AI actors. The future of AI in entertainment may ultimately depend on audience reception.