TommyInnit says he’s stepping away from AI content for good after receiving backlash over a now-deleted video and allegations AI was used in his book’s artwork.
On June 15, the YouTuber uploaded a 30-minute video titled “Asking AI About Me,” where he interacted with generative AI to comedic effect.
While the video was intended to be lighthearted, many fans criticized it for allegedly promoting harmful tech, especially over environmental concerns linked to AI’s energy usage.
In the video’s description, Tommy had already seemed hesitant, reportedly writing:
“By the way guys, I really do think AI is bad. It’s definitely going to ruin the world and I do not at all endorse it. Taking away from the human spirit is not a good ambition for corporations to have.”
The backlash came following a separate controversy a month earlier when Reddit users alleged AI might have also been used in TommyInnit’s Guide To Survival book, citing that illustrator Amrit Birdi lists an “AI Lab” on his official website.
Though there’s no confirmation AI tools were used in the book, the speculation added fuel to the fire.
TommyInnit takes down AI video after controversy
On June 25, Tommy addressed the controversy with a statement on X:
“Sorry everyone, I genuinely did not know about the negative impacts AI had on the environment, and have no intention to promote that to any of my audience.
Been offline this week, but after reading up on it, I’ve taken down my video ‘Asking AI About Me’ & have no plans to make any AI content in the future.”
His apology, however, sparked a new wave of criticism from some creators.
“I cannot imagine having to virtue signal this hard because you’ve pandered to such a weak audience for years,” commented Kick streamer Tectone. “If you’re that worried about AI environmental damages, then get off the internet as a whole, and don’t charge your phone either.”
YouTuber Donut Operator simply responded: “Really? Dude, c’mon.”
Tommy has yet to respond to the reactions from fellow creators, but fans remain divided, accusing him of bowing to pressure. He’s also far from the only YouTuber facing backlash for the use of AI.
Earlier in June, MrBeast came under fire for creating an AI thumbnail maker for creators, leading him to promise a series of changes going forward.
Content shared from www.dexerto.com.