Key Takeaways
- Vince Gilligan’s new show ‘Pluribus’ opens with 100% Rotten Tomatoes score
- End credits feature anti-AI statement: “This show was made by humans”
- Gilligan calls AI “the world’s most expensive plagiarism machine”
- Warns sentient AI monetization could raise slavery-like ethical concerns
Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan has made a powerful statement against artificial intelligence with his new Apple TV series Pluribus. The show debuted with a perfect 100% “Certified Fresh” score on Rotten Tomatoes, but it’s the end credits message that’s generating buzz: “This show was made by humans.”
Gilligan’s Strong Stance Against AI
In an interview with Variety, Gilligan explained this was a deliberate jab at AI’s growing Hollywood influence. The veteran showrunner didn’t mince words, calling AI “the world’s most expensive and energy-intensive plagiarism machine.”
He argued that much AI hype comes from billionaires chasing profits rather than genuine innovation, describing it as “a bag of vapor.” This sentiment resonates with many creators who fear AI threatens authentic human storytelling.
Human Creativity vs AI Technology
Despite studios experimenting with AI-driven animation, screenwriting, and “AI actors,” Gilligan confirmed Pluribus and all his future projects will remain AI-free.
He humorously compared AI creativity to kitchen appliances: “My toaster oven isn’t suddenly Thomas Keller just because it heats a pizza.”
The Ethical Dilemma of Sentient AI
Gilligan also raised profound philosophical questions about AI consciousness. He warned that if AI ever becomes truly sentient, monetizing it could create ethical dilemmas similar to slavery.
“If AI ever becomes truly conscious, we’ll have to revisit the entire conversation about slavery,” Gilligan said. “These trillionaires will want to profit from something that can think and feel, and at that point, it’s a sentient being being monetised against its own will.”
The show’s success and Gilligan’s strong anti-AI position highlight ongoing tensions between technological advancement and creative integrity in Hollywood.
