Hayes Davenport, a writer for shows like Family Guy and co-host of the Hollywood Handbook podcast, suggests that Hollywood's problems predated the rise of AI. Speaking on the "Odd Lots" podcast, Davenport highlighted a pre-existing decline in the industry, marked by decreasing earnings for writers and a reduction in the number of productions taking place in Los Angeles. He described a feeling of unease and a downward trend that was evident even before generative AI became a significant concern for entertainment professionals.
Davenport provided a historical overview of Hollywood's challenges, tracing its steady decline from the pandemic era to the present day. His insights point to underlying structural issues within the industry that have been compounded by recent developments. This perspective contrasts with the common narrative that attributes most of Hollywood's current woes solely to the emergence of artificial intelligence.
The discussion also delved into the evolving norms of AI usage among entertainment professionals, reflecting a growing adaptation to or concern about the technology. Davenport expressed envy for New York, implying that the entertainment landscape there might be more resilient or less affected by the issues plaguing Hollywood. The conversation underscores the complex interplay of economic shifts, technological disruption, and changing industry practices contributing to the current state of the entertainment capital.
