In recent months, some of the most influential voices in science fiction and popular culture have been taking firmer stances against generative AI. The decisions by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association (SFWA) and San Diego Comic-Con highlight a growing resistance within creative communities, joining other platforms like Bandcamp, which recently banned AI-generated music.
Back in December, SFWA updated its rules for the Nebula Awards, stating that works written entirely by large language models (LLMs) would not be eligible. The initial draft allowed authors who used LLMs at any point to disclose that usage, leaving voters to decide if it influenced their support. This move immediately sparked controversy, with critics claiming it still opened the door to partially AI-generated work.
The SFWA Board of Directors quickly issued an apology, stating, “Our approach and wording were wrong, and we apologize for the distress and distrust we caused.”
Damilare Odedina
The rules were revised again, now explicitly stating that any work created wholly or partially by LLMs is ineligible for the Nebulas, and any use of AI at any stage would disqualify submissions.
Writer Jason Sanford praised SFWA for listening to its members. He noted he avoids using generative AI in his own fiction, citing concerns about copyright and the inability of AI tools to create truly original storytelling. Still, he pointed out that defining LLM usage can be tricky, as many common tools, like search engines or word processors, already incorporate AI components. Care must be taken to ensure legitimate writers aren’t unfairly penalized.
The massive annual San Diego Comic-Con faced a similar debate this month. Initially, the rules allowed AI-generated art to be displayed in the convention’s art show, but not sold. After complaints from artists, the rules were changed: “Material created by Artificial Intelligence (AI), either partially or wholly, is not allowed in the art show.”
Emmanuel Umahi
Glen Wooten, head of the Comic-Con art show, reportedly acknowledged that previous rules had been effective in deterring AI art submissions, but stressed that stricter language was now needed due to the increasing prevalence of AI-generated content. His response, “NO! Plain and simple.”
These actions signal that creative communities are pushing back against AI, particularly in areas where originality and authorship are central to recognition and awards. It’s likely other organizations will follow suit, and debates about AI’s role in creative work are expected to continue throughout the year.
The Takeaway
Science fiction writers and creators at major conventions are drawing clear lines: generative AI cannot replace human creativity in award-worthy writing or original art. SFWA and Comic-Con’s hardline stances underscore the tension between technological convenience and artistic integrity. For creators, the message is clear: originality matters, and the use of AI in your work could have consequences for recognition, awards, and professional credibility.
Damilare Odedina
