Spielberg Tells Michelle Obama, "Do Not Use AI as the Final Word on Anything Creative"
Over the last several years, for millions around the world, AI has become quite the hot-button issue. Many people appreciate AI-powered chatbots like ChatGPT and AI software like Claude, but there are also plenty of individuals concerned that AI will be used to replace humans in job functions (a point some will argue is being punctuated by mass company layoffs). Now adding his two cents to the AI conversation as it pertains to Hollywood is one of the most revered directors/writers/producers of all time, Steven Spielberg.
During a sit-down with Former First Lady Michelle Obama on her IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson podcast, the E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial filmmaker was very candid about his thoughts on AI's placement in filmmaking. So what did he say?
Spielberg Doesn't Believe There's a "Substitute for the Soul"
In the IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson episode released on May 27, Spielberg stopped by for a chat to discuss his new movie Disclosure Day, his legacy, and, of course, the use of AI in the entertainment business. When the topic of AI came up, one of the first things he shared was, "I don't believe that there's any substitute, any substitute for the soul. I don't think that is an algorithm; that is ‘inventable' if that is such a word." Spielberg continued:
"I don't want AI involved in that way. If AI wants to help me find locations, that's great. Saves us all a lot of legwork. But don't tell me that I don't have the right antagonist in this movie, don't tell me how to write the dialogue for this character, don't tell me where the camera has got to go. And also, don't tell me what the set should look like, unless AI is simply a tool in a large tool chest of the production designer."
Spielberg punctuates his sentiments on AI in the creative process by stating, "Use AI as a tool, but do not use AI as the final word on anything creative. That's where I draw the line." Check out the following clip and hear Spielberg for yourself.
"I don't believe that there's any substitute for the soul."
— The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) May 27, 2026
Steven Spielberg says AI should only be used as a tool, not as the final word on anything creative, as he reveals he has no plans to replace writers with AI.
( Michelle Obama/Youtube) pic.twitter.com/vQ1nC28CKO
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This story was originally published by Men's Journal on May 27, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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This story was originally published May 27, 2026 at 1:48 PM.