KQED's Forum So You Want to Work in Hollywood? Here’s How.
Sep 26, 2025
Ada Tseng, a writer and editor known for her Hollywood Careers series, and Jon Healey, a former LA Times reporter, explore the evolving landscape of Hollywood. They discuss how AI is reshaping industry roles, from casting to creative tasks. Ada offers insights on the rise of self-taped auditions post-COVID, while Jon emphasizes the importance of networking over cold emails. They advise aspiring professionals on viable entry-level jobs, the value of joining unions, and the necessity of marketing oneself in today's entertainment world.
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The Forces Defining New Hollywood
- New Hollywood is defined by streaming, AI, the pandemic, and strikes reshaping production and jobs.
- These forces create rapid change in how content is made, distributed, and staffed.
AI As A Broad Disruptor
- AI is the latest industrial disruption that can automate thinking tasks as well as mechanical ones.
- It risks consolidating and automating jobs across creative and post-production roles.
Where AI Will Hit First
- Expect AI to impact VFX, 3D modeling, sound, and administrative tasks first.
- Plan skill development toward areas less automated or learn to supervise AI tools.
