Warner Bros. pulls Supergirl video over AI art controversy

Warner Bros. Discovery has removed a behind-the-scenes featurette for the film ‘Supergirl’ following public backlash regarding the use of generative AI. The video, which was intended to promote the digital release, appeared to show director Craig Gillespie and actor Jason Momoa reviewing concept art for the character Lobo that was created using AI.

The controversy follows a difficult period for the film, which has been described as a box office failure, grossing approximately $125.8 million against a reported budget of $180 million. Critics and fans have expressed frustration that AI was used for character design despite the film's significant budget, which many felt should have supported human concept artists.

While the promotional clip was pulled from YouTube, the footage remains accessible within the digital release's extras section. Other discussions surrounding the film have focused on its narrative scale and its portrayal of the character Kara Zor-El, noting its emotional focus on grief and memory compared to typical superhero spectacles.