The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced new eligibility rules Friday that prohibit AI-generated actors and writing from winning Oscars awards. Films may use artificial intelligence as a filmmaking tool, but work created by AI systems cannot be credited or nominated for competitive categories.
The decision reflects growing tension in Hollywood over how to govern AI use as the technology advances rapidly. Studios and creators have raised questions about whether AI tools constitute legitimate artistic contributions or undercut human craftspeople in writing, acting, and visual effects roles.
The Academy did not ban AI from the filmmaking process entirely. Directors and cinematographers can use AI in production and post-production work. However, the new rules require filmmakers to disclose all AI-generated elements in their submissions. The Academy will review those disclosures to determine eligibility.
The announcement comes as the entertainment industry grapples with AI's role in creative work. Earlier this year, writers and actors negotiated contract provisions addressing AI compensation and credit. The Oscars eligibility rules now establish a clearer boundary: human performances and human-written scripts remain prerequisites for awards consideration, while AI remains a permitted production tool.