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Channel 4’s ‘Dispatches’ Uses AI Presenter in UK First as Network Plans Further AI Experiments

Channel 4 frames the reveal as a one-off intended to probe trust, not a step toward replacing human reporting.

Overview

  • The hour-long Will AI Take My Job? ended by revealing its on-screen host, Aisha Gaban, was AI-generated, created by Seraphinne Vallora for Kalel Productions.
  • Channel 4 says the stunt followed its AI editorial rules, with news chief Louisa Compton saying the channel will not make a habit of synthetic presenters and that AI cannot deliver duly impartial, trusted journalism.
  • A Channel 4 survey of 1,000 UK business leaders found 76% have adopted AI for tasks previously done by humans, 41% reported reduced recruitment, and 66% said they are excited about workplace use.
  • Viewers and critics reported mixed reactions, with some fooled until the reveal and others spotting technical tells such as blurring around the presenter’s mouth.
  • Channel 4 now plans further AI on-air experiments, not a return for Gaban, as the episode drew 564,000 viewers and exposed limitations including no real-time interviews and fully scripted output.