Supergirl AI Concept Art Sparks Backlash, Warner Bros. Pulls Video

The DC film Supergirl has faced renewed controversy after a behind-the-scenes clip appeared to show AI-generated concept art. The clip, featuring director Craig Gillespie looking at concept art of Lobo (played by Jason Momoa), was posted online and quickly drew criticism from fans and AI critics who noted the image's uncanny, smooth texture and soft blur typical of generative AI. The backlash added to existing negative perceptions of the film, which had already been criticized for muddy visuals and blurry VFX, and reportedly experienced a troubled post-production. Warner Bros. hastily pulled the video from YouTube, but did not confirm or deny the AI accusation, leading many to interpret the silence as an admission. The controversy highlights broader concerns about AI in the creative industries, including job losses and the disruption of the creative process. Similar backlash has occurred with other projects, such as the MCU series Secret Invasion and the film The End of Oak Street, which faced criticism for an AI-generated dog podcast promotion. YouTuber Hank Green also faced backlash for using AI in scripts, prompting him to pledge to limit its use. Notably, DC Head and Superman director James Gunn has publicly mocked AI, comparing Lex Luthor's rage to artists' feelings about AI. The incident underscores the growing tension between AI adoption and creative labor.