Fans of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy were quick to raise concerns after spotting a comic book prop in episode six of the new series. Many feared the artwork had been created using generative AI, a technology that has sparked controversy across the entertainment industry.
The Comic Book in Question
In the episode “Come, Let’s Away,” students at Starfleet Academy explore the derelict ship Miyazaki. To help the ship’s computer learn its own history, they scan a comic book titled Tales from the Frontier, which depicts the Miyazaki’s legendary mission during the Burn in the 31st century. The inclusion of a comic book was a fun nod to storytelling traditions, but fans immediately speculated that the art might have been AI-generated.
TrekMovie Confirms Human Artists
According to TrekMovie.com, the comic was not created with AI. Instead, it was designed and drawn by the show’s in-house art department. The prop was physically printed and used on set, ensuring that the artwork was the product of human creativity. This clarification reassured fans who had voiced frustration over the possibility of AI involvement. The backlash highlights how sensitive audiences have become to generative AI, especially in creative industries where human artistry is highly valued.
Why Fans Reacted Strongly
Generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Midjourney have raised ethical concerns by producing art and writing based on massive datasets that often include copyrighted material. Many artists argue that these systems exploit human work without consent. That’s why fans were quick to question the comic’s origins. Even though Star Trek embraces fictional AI characters like Data and the holographic Doctor, real-world AI in creative production is far less welcome.
A Larger Industry Debate
The controversy reflects a broader trend. Audiences have criticized the use of generative AI in films such as The Brutalist and Late Night with the Devil. The growing pushback suggests that viewers want authentic art created by people, not algorithms. By confirming that the comic was hand-drawn, Starfleet Academy avoided the pitfalls of AI-generated content and reinforced its commitment to creative integrity.
