Russell T. Davies Criticizes BBC Director General Over AI Comments
Longtime Doctor Who writer Russell T. Davies has publicly criticized BBC Director General Matt Brittin for remarks made about an AI-generated episode of the science fiction series.
Russell T. Davies, a prominent figure in British television and a key writer for Doctor Who, has voiced strong disapproval of comments made by BBC Director General Matt Brittin regarding artificial intelligence and the popular science fiction show. Brittin had reportedly mentioned being sent a "pretty good" 50-minute unofficial Doctor Who episode generated by AI.
"That's a clumsy thing to say in an industry where he's got writers and artists and it specifically affects people, they're the first to take the blow," Davies stated in an interview with BBC Radio 4's The Media Show. Davies suggested that Brittin, who joined the BBC after a career at Google, "hasn't worked in television for that long and might not be so fruity with an opinion in future."
Brittin later addressed criticism from staff, explaining that his intention was to highlight the "pace of change" while affirming his belief in "human creativity." He clarified that he intended to emphasize how AI tools can enhance human creativity, not replace it, stating, "Humans are leading, and I believe in human creativity, enhanced by whatever tools."
Davies also expressed concern about the broader impact of AI on writers. "I have heard stories of some writers using AI prompts to do a first draft which I find shocking because I think... What are you paid for otherwise? What are you there to do?" he questioned, admitting he worried AI could begin to replace writers, and in some cases, may already be doing so. Davies confirmed he does not use AI for his own scriptwriting.
Davies, known for his influential work on series like Queer as Folk, It's a Sin, and Years and Years, played a pivotal role in reviving Doctor Who in 2005 after a 16-year hiatus. He also oversaw the show's latest revival in 2023 before stepping away. He assured fans that a new series is in development, with production expected to begin next summer featuring a "brand-new Doctor, a brand-new companion."
Davies, who recently released his memoir 'The Queerest of Folk: A Life in Television,' reflected on his early career, starting in BBC children's television at age 22. He also shared insights into his creative process, mentioning that he finds inspiration in unexpected places, such as listening to phone-in shows.