Tina Fey on AI and the Future of Comedy Writing
Tina Fey, renowned for her work on Saturday Night Live and creator of 30 Rock, shared her views on artificial intelligence (AI) and its place in comedy writing at the Edinburgh TV Festival. She confidently stated that while AI can perform many tasks, it still cannot produce true humor.
“AI can do all sorts of other terrifying things, like writing music, but so far, it’s unable to be funny,” Fey told the audience. This perspective offers reassurance to comedy writers concerned about AI replacing creative roles.
Fey’s Comedy Roots and Sarah Palin Impersonation
Fey began her career with Chicago’s improvisational group The Second City before moving to the NBC sketch comedy scene. One of her most iconic roles was impersonating Sarah Palin during the 2008 US presidential election cycle.
Her portrayal became so recognizable that viewers often mistook her for the real politician. Fey admitted she was hesitant to return to Saturday Night Live for the role, noting that fellow comedian Kristen Wiig could have easily done it. Still, the six weeks spent impersonating Palin boosted her profile significantly, even leading to mistaken identity in international media.
UK TV and the Challenge of Sketch Comedy Writing
Fey discussed the announcement of a UK version of the Saturday Night Live format, produced by Lorne Michaels, and the differences in writing culture between the US and UK. Graham Norton, who shared the stage with her, doubted British writers would work overnight to meet tight deadlines like their American counterparts.
Fey revealed a practical insight: “Here’s a dirty secret. You don’t have to do it that way. You could start in the morning.” This highlights that creative processes can be adapted rather than strictly copied.
Meeting with Former UK Prime Minister David Cameron
Fey recounted an unexpected call from NBC inviting her to meet David Cameron during his time as Prime Minister. Cameron wanted to discuss British television and encouraged her to collaborate with UK writers to produce more episodes.
Fey turned down the offer, saying, “We all want to do it the way they do it, be Ricky Gervais and be like ‘Remember that time I made 12 half-hours.’ That’s the lifestyle.” This reflects a preference for creative control and manageable production rhythms.
About Fey’s Current Work and Influences
Her latest project, The Four Seasons, based on a 1981 film, is described as “an exercise in restraint.” Fey emphasized keeping characters’ interactions grounded and normal rather than exaggerated. The show’s second season is now in production.
Drawing on her own experience at 55, Fey finds material in the realities of mid-life, both the challenges and the humor.
She also shared her appreciation for British comedy classics like Monty Python and Benny Hill. When asked about favorite shows from the last 50 years, she named Absolutely Fabulous and I May Destroy You. Her favorite Scottish film, despite this being her first visit to Scotland, is Local Hero.
Fey expressed enthusiasm about returning to the UK to tour The Restless Leg, a show created with Amy Poehler that explores their 30-year friendship.
Key Takeaways for Writers
- AI has limits in creative fields: Humor and nuanced comedy are still beyond AI’s grasp, so writers remain essential.
- Creative workflows can be adapted: Long-standing traditions like overnight scriptwriting aren’t mandatory; productivity can happen on different schedules.
- Personal experience fuels storytelling: Fey’s mid-life perspective shapes her current work, illustrating the value of drawing from life.
- Cross-cultural influences matter: Exposure to diverse comedy styles enriches a writer’s craft.
For writers interested in how AI tools can assist with their craft without replacing creativity, exploring resources like AI courses for writers can offer practical guidance on integrating technology thoughtfully.
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