On June 13, 2025, Aardman Animations, the studio behind the beloved Wallace & Gromit series, voiced serious concerns over proposed UK legislation that could imperil its future. The government's plan to allow AI developers to freely use copyrighted material unless creators opt out has alarmed many in the creative industry. Sean Clarke, Aardman's Managing Director, warned that such an opt-out system would impose unsustainable costs on the studio, threatening its operations and the continuation of iconic characters like Wallace and Gromit.
Aardman already spends approximately £300,000 annually on copyright protection. Clarke emphasized that the proposed legislation would significantly increase these costs, as the studio would need to monitor and enforce its rights across numerous platforms. He likened the situation to software licensing, questioning the fairness of requiring creators to opt out of unauthorized use of their work. The studio fears that the ease of generating AI-produced merchandise could undermine its business model, which relies heavily on intellectual property rights for funding and brand development.
The proposed changes have drawn criticism from various quarters, including publishers, artists, and public figures like Sir Elton John, who described the government's approach as "reckless and harmful to creators." The UK government has stated that it is reviewing public consultation responses and has not made final decisions regarding the legislation.
Aardman's concerns highlight the broader challenges faced by creative industries in the age of AI. While the studio supports innovation, it stresses the need for globally consistent, creator-friendly AI regulations that protect the rights of content creators. The outcome of this legislative debate could have far-reaching implications for the future of animation and the preservation of beloved cultural icons.