Amidst the hustle of Hollywood and the rapid advance of technology, “Succession” star Sarah Snook is advocating for something rather important — a pause and a plan for how artificial intelligence should be handled in the film industry. In a candid chat with the BBC, Snook shared her thoughts on the current SAG-AFTRA discussions, where AI is proving to be a hot topic.
AI’s Impact on Tinseltown
Snook, who’s won over audiences with her portrayal of Shiv Roy in the award-winning show “Succession,” pointed out the new territory we’re entering with deepfake technology. The topic hits close to home for many in her field, with her using the example of those eerily accurate Tom Cruise deepfake videos to underline her point: this tech is amazing, but it’s also kind of scary.
Setting the Stage for AI Rules
The way Snook sees it, Hollywood has got a chance to lead by example. ‘It’s such unchartered landscape,’ she remarked, stressing the importance of establishing some robust regulations. It’s not just about actors — it encompasses the whole spectrum of the industry. If the film industry’s presidents and key decision-makers can unite to figure out a solid approach to AI, then other industries might just follow suit.
Facing the Propaganda Possibility
Snook didn’t shy away from addressing the darker side of the AI debate. The thought of a company potentially having control over an actor’s image or voice — and the prospect of them creating propaganda — is something she finds particularly unsettling. It’s not science fiction; it’s a real concern that’s got people talking.
Backing Up Her Colleagues
When it comes to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike, Snook stands firmly with her fellow actors. The break from filming “Succession” gave her some time to reflect on her own experiences and the industry’s journey with AI. It’s a personal and professional issue that she believes needs some serious attention.
“Dorian Gray” in the Digital Age
Next on Snook’s agenda is an ambitious project where she’ll play all 26 characters in “The Picture of Dorian Gray” on stage. It’s a story that resonates with today’s digital obsessions — where everyone’s curating their online images just like Dorian with his portrait. Snook draws a thoughtful parallel between Wilde’s narrative and our modern-day fixation with looks and online personas.
Staying Low-Key on Social Media
Despite the spotlight, Snook prefers to keep things quiet online. She admits to finding social media a bit overwhelming — a personal choice that certainly echoes the caution she advises in the broader discussion of AI.
Shiv Roy: Fun to Play, But Okay to Say Goodbye
As for her sharp and powerful character on “Succession”? Snook says she had a blast playing Shiv but isn’t clinging to her now that the show’s done. It’s a reminder of the temporary nature of roles — and perhaps a nod to the idea that, in an AI-driven world, letting go might not always be so simple.
In wrapping up, Snook’s conversation is a heartfelt nudge for Hollywood to consider the path it’s on with AI. It’s clear she cares deeply about her craft and the industry’s future — and she’s inviting everyone to be part of this crucial dialogue.