Academy says AI-generated actors and scripts will not qualify for Oscars

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has updated its Oscar rules to say that only roles “demonstrably performed by humans with their consent” will be eligible in acting categories and that screenplays must be “human-authored” to qualify for writing awards.

The new rules were approved for the 99th Academy Awards, with eligibility tied to films released in 2026.

The Academy stopped short of banning artificial intelligence from filmmaking altogether.

Its rulebook says that with generative AI and other digital tools, “the tools neither help nor harm the chances of achieving a nomination,” and adds that the Academy may ask for more information if questions come up about AI use or human authorship. 

The timing lands as Hollywood keeps wrestling with generative AI’s role in production and performance.

Reuters reported that the rule update comes after concerns in the industry over synthetic performers and AI-assisted creative work, including pushback that followed the emergence of the AI-generated “actress” Tilly Norwood.

The Academy’s approach draws a line at authorship and performance rather than at software itself.

Films can still use AI tools in the production process, but if a performance or script is to compete for an Oscar, the Academy now wants the human contribution to be clear enough to verify.