Top Hollywood Executive Champions AI as Incoming Tidal Wave

Hollywood Veteran Kevin Reilly Shifts to AI Workflows in Major Career Pivot

Former top TV executive Kevin Reilly has taken a new role as CEO of an AI startup. The 63-year-old industry leader announced his move to the company Kartel on Wednesday. This marks a significant departure from his decades-long career at major networks like NBC and Fox.

His decision highlights a broader technological shift reshaping the entertainment industry. Instead of developing shows, Reilly will now help studios and brands integrate AI video generation tools. This move signals a major cultural moment for Hollywood.

AI workflows in Hollywood

From Programming to Precision: The New Role Explained

Reilly spent over 30 years championing iconic television shows. According to Reuters, his portfolio includes hits like The Office and Glee. He also played a key role in launching the HBO Max streaming service.

Now, he is stepping away from traditional content creation. At Kartel, his focus will be on building reliable AI-powered workflows. The company acts as a bridge between Silicon Valley’s tech and Hollywood’s creative needs.

The goal is to provide precision and quality control for AI-generated video. Reilly stated that current tools, while impressive, often lack the reliability required for professional use. Kartel aims to solve this by developing custom systems for clients.

Embracing Change in a Disrupted Industry

The veteran executive acknowledges the anxiety his move may cause. Many in Hollywood fear AI will eliminate traditional production jobs and artistry. Reilly believes fighting the technology is a mistake.

He compares this shift to past technological revolutions, like the internet’s arrival. He argues that while some jobs will be displaced, new roles will emerge. The key is to adapt and find ways for the tool to empower creatives.

Reilly emphasizes that high-end, artisanal filmmaking will always exist. However, he sees a hybrid future where AI handles specific, time-consuming tasks. This could allow for faster iteration and lower costs on many projects.

Kevin Reilly’s career pivot underscores a fundamental transformation. The adoption of AI workflows in Hollywood is no longer a distant concept. It is a present reality that is redefining the creative process itself.

Thought you’d like to know

What is Kevin Reilly’s background in Hollywood?

He was a top executive at NBC and Fox for decades. Reilly helped greenlight major shows like *30 Rock* and *Brooklyn Nine-Nine*. He also led content efforts for the launch of HBO Max.

What does the AI startup Kartel actually do?

Kartel builds custom AI video generation workflows for studios and brands. It does not create its own content or foundational AI models. The company focuses on integrating and managing these tools for reliable, professional outputs.

Will AI replace traditional film and TV production?

Industry veterans like Reilly believe it will transform, not fully replace it. High-budget, traditional cinema is expected to continue. However, AI will likely handle specific effects, iterative tasks, and lower-budget projects more frequently.

Why are Hollywood unions concerned about AI?

Unions fear the technology could erase jobs for crew, animators, and even actors. They worry about copyright issues and the devaluation of human artistic skill. This was a central issue in the recent industry strikes.

How quickly will AI be adopted by major studios?

Adoption is already happening in areas like visual effects and advertising. Widespread use in narrative filming will be slower due to technical, legal, and creative hurdles. Most experts see it as a gradual integration over years.