As Hollywood grapples with the growing influence of generative AI, Pluribus creator Vince Gilligan has voiced strong criticism against the technology’s role in creative industries. In a recent interview with Deadline, the Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul showrunner warned that AI could erode human creativity and personal agency. The comments came as Gilligan promoted Apple TV’s newest sci-fi series Pluribus, which carries a “Made by Humans” disclaimer in its credits.
Who: Vince Gilligan, creator of Pluribus and Emmy-winning producer.
What: Expressed concerns about generative AI diminishing human creativity.
When: November 10, 2025, during an interview with Deadline.
Where: Los Angeles, in connection with the release of Pluribus on Apple TV.
Why: To highlight the potential loss of human creativity and agency due to AI’s growing role in entertainment.
How: Through a detailed conversation addressing his fears about technology replacing artistic effort.
Gilligan’s Main Concerns
Gilligan, known for his sharp storytelling and philosophical themes, did not mince words about his distrust of generative AI. “I do not care for AI,” he said, noting that technology meant to “make the world a better place” often ends up taking “work away, creativity away, creative endeavor away from human beings.”
He warned that the overreliance on automation — from AI writing tools to image generators — threatens the very essence of what makes humans unique: the drive to create. According to Gilligan, surrendering creative expression to machines equates to “losing a part of yourself.”
Praise for Guillermo del Toro and the Human Touch
When discussing other filmmakers’ views, Gilligan expressed admiration for Frankenstein director Guillermo del Toro, who has also criticized AI’s rise in cinema. “I love Guillermo del Toro, what a genius he is,” Gilligan said. “Please quote me on that, because he’s an international treasure.”
Gilligan emphasized that del Toro’s dedication to the art form represents the “creative spark” that AI can never replicate. He added that while AI might have a limited place in the industry, it should never replace genuine human imagination.
Impact on Hollywood’s Creative Landscape
Gilligan’s remarks arrive amid heated debate in Hollywood, where studios and creators remain divided on AI’s role. Platforms like Fable’s Showrunner are experimenting with fully AI-generated actors, sparking concern among writers, directors, and unions.
Industry observers note that Pluribus — a series about an alien virus that unifies humanity into a collective consciousness — resonates deeply as an allegory for conformity in the age of AI. Critics have praised its “Made by Humans” stance as a bold cultural statement.
What’s Next for ‘Pluribus’ and Gilligan
The first two episodes of Pluribus are now streaming on Apple TV, with more episodes set for release this month. Gilligan has hinted that the series will continue exploring themes of individuality, choice, and the meaning of humanity — topics that are increasingly relevant in an AI-driven world.
Despite acknowledging AI’s potential utility, Gilligan reaffirmed his commitment to human storytelling: “The creative spark is one of the most precious things we have. What is more important than being creative?”
Sources
Deadline Interview with Vince Gilligan
Apple TV Official Press Release: “Pluribus”
Polygon Interview (October 2025)
Yahoo Entertainment / Natalie Oganesyan
