Takeaways:
- Jenna Ortega joins a growing list of actors voicing concern over AI in entertainment.
- The Wednesday star says AI lacks “soul” and can’t replicate human creativity.
- At the Marrakech Film Festival, she shared fears that AI could overwhelm audiences—but believes authentic filmmaking will always shine through.
Jenna Ortega Takes a Stand Against AI in Hollywood
As conversations around Artificial Intelligence continue to dominate Hollywood, Jenna Ortega is adding her voice to the debate. During a press conference at the 22nd Marrakech International Film Festival, the Wednesday star opened up about why AI-generated storytelling can never replace human creativity.
“There is really charm in the human condition… as humans, we have a tendency to always, when you look back at history, take things too far,” Ortega said during the festival’s jury panel, as reported by Deadline.
She acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding AI’s role in filmmaking, calling the current moment “terrifying” and comparing the technology to a “Pandora’s Box” that has already been opened.
“A Computer Has No Soul” — Why Ortega Says AI Can’t Replace Artists
While some in the industry explore AI as a creative tool, Ortega argued that the heart of filmmaking lies in human imperfection—something AI cannot mimic.
According to Ortega:
- Human mistakes are “beautiful” and essential to authentic storytelling
- AI-generated work feels “soulless” and lacks emotional resonance
- Audiences will eventually crave real, human-made art again
“There’s certain things that AI just isn’t able to replicate… a computer can’t do that. A computer has no soul, and it’s nothing that we would ever be able to resonate with or relate to,” she said.
This sentiment reflects the growing pushback across Hollywood as actors, writers, and creators advocate for safeguards to protect their likeness, artistry, and income from AI misuse.
Ortega Predicts AI Fatigue Among Audiences
Despite her concerns, Ortega is optimistic that the entertainment industry will rebalance itself. She believes audiences may eventually grow tired of AI-driven content—what she refers to as “mental junk food.”
“I would hope it gets to a point where it becomes some sort of mental junk food… and then suddenly we all feel sick, and we don’t know why,” she said. “And then that one independent filmmaker in their backyard comes out with something, and it releases this new excitement again.”
Her comment highlights a broader trend: independent filmmakers often become the spark that reignites passion for authentic storytelling.
Inside the Marrakech International Film Festival
The 22nd Marrakech International Film Festival kicked off on November 29 and runs through December 6. This year’s jury is led by Parasite filmmaker Bong Joon Ho and includes a powerhouse lineup:
- Anya Taylor-Joy
- Celine Song
- Julia Ducournau
- Karim Aïnouz
- Hakim Belabbes
- Jenna Ortega — serving as the youngest member of the jury
The festival continues to highlight global cinema and rising voices in filmmaking, making Ortega’s comments on the future of storytelling especially timely.
Why This Matters for Actors and Creators
The rise of AI has sparked urgent discussions in Hollywood about creative ownership, artistic identity, and the importance of protecting human-made work. Jenna Ortega’s stance echoes what many performers and filmmakers feel: that storytelling is deeply human.
For actors, background performers, content creators, and filmmakers, staying informed about AI’s impact—and advocating for protections—will continue to shape the future of the industry.
