JoJorge R. Gutiérrez has stepped away from an Amazon MGM Studios animated project developed under a generative AI initiative. His departure followed public criticism and wider industry debate over artificial intelligence in animation. The situation has become part of a broader AI backlash involving Jorge Gutiérrez and Amazon, centered on how studios use generative tools in creative work.
Reporting from The Hollywood Reporter confirms that Gutiérrez withdrew from the project after online reaction grew across the animation community. He had been attached to an animated series titled Punky Duck, which formed part of Amazon’s GenAI Creators’ Fund.
Amazon MGM Studios and Amazon Web Services launched the GenAI Creators’ Fund as an experimental program focused on developing animated series using generative AI tools. The initiative selected several projects, including Punky Duck, as part of its early slate exploring AI-assisted production.
Image for the Amazon series Punky Duck – YouTube, The Roundtable
Gutiérrez is best known for directing The Book of Life and co-creating Maya and the Three.
His involvement in an AI-driven series drew attention because of his established reputation for traditional, artist-led animation. That contrast quickly became a focal point in online discussion after Amazon announced the project lineup.
Gutiérrez’s Comments and Withdrawal from the Project
Gutiérrez received much backlash on social media for his use of generative AI in the animation process. One unknown individual went as far as to call him a “sellout” on his Wikipedia page, which was later taken out.
I have decided to drop out of the AI program at Amazon. I will not be making a Punky Duck series. Actions speak louder than words.
My intent was to showcase artists, both new and seasoned, both inside and outside the studios, driving this new tech.
My sincerest apology to… https://t.co/GJQZMkfZwd
— Jorge R. Gutierrez (@mexopolis) May 29, 2026
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Growing concern and criticism within the animation community about generative AI and its impact on creative labor led Gutiérrez to announce he would no longer continue with the series. He publicly stated on May 29 that he would exit the program and would not move forward with Punky Duck. “My sincerest apology to those I upset. I promise to do better moving forward. Thank you for your patience with me. I will try harder.”
This followed a post from earlier in the day where Gutiérrez, “Learning a lot from many of you. Thank you. Lots of information that I’m digesting wholeheartedly. I am absolutely understanding the concern of using AI to assist an animation pipeline. For all those showing me grace, I really appreciate it. I have a lot to think about.”
Broader Debate
Industry reactions to Amazon’s initiative have been divided. Some creators view generative AI as a tool that may streamline parts of production and expand access to animation development. Others argue that it raises unresolved issues around authorship, training data use, and job displacement.
The broader debate has intensified as studios test AI tools in writing, animation, and preproduction workflows. Labor organizations and creative professionals have called for clearer standards around disclosure and consent when generative systems are used in entertainment production.
Jorge Gutierrez – YouTube, Nicktoons
In Gutiérrez’s case, he responded to the backlash by withdrawing from the project.
Amazon continues to promote the GenAI Creators’ Fund as an experimental development initiative. Public discussion of its early projects has highlighted ongoing disagreement within the industry about how generative AI should be used in animation. The status of Punky Duck after Gutiérrez’s departure has not been clearly updated in official statements.
The situation reflects ongoing uncertainty in the animation industry as studios, artists, and executives continue to negotiate the role of generative AI in production workflows.
What do you think of Jorge Gutiérrez’s comments after the backlash for the Amazon project? Is it appropriate to use AI in art and to what extent if so? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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