Ari Emanuel says Elon Musk’s AI prediction to him helped inspire his live events business

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Intelligence Network • Data Science • AI Research • World News
Published: 2026-10-10T11:07:20.406Z • Permanent link

Hollywood powerbroker Ari Emanuel recently shared a fascinating anecdote on a podcast, revealing that Elon Musk once told him that live events were essentially AI-proof. Emanuel, who serves as the chairman of Endeavor Group Holdings, a prominent talent agency and live events company, had a candid conversation with Musk about the future of the entertainment industry. According to Emanuel, Musk stated that AI would revolutionize various aspects of the industry, but live events would remain immune to automation. Emanuel recalled that Musk's comment was made in a meeting at his home, where he was discussing the potential impact of AI on the entertainment industry. Emanuel's account highlights the interest of high-profile figures in the entertainment industry in understanding the implications of AI on their businesses.

Emanuel's statement has sparked renewed interest in the intersection of AI and live events. The entertainment industry has long been a hub for technological innovation, with companies like Netflix and Disney leveraging AI to enhance their content offerings. However, live events, such as concerts, festivals, and award shows, have traditionally relied on human interaction and emotional connection to create a memorable experience. Emanuel's comment suggests that even the most influential figures in the industry are acknowledging the potential of AI to disrupt traditional business models.

Musk's prediction has also sparked a heated debate about the role of AI in live events. Some argue that AI can enhance the live experience, while others believe that it will ultimately replace human interaction. As the entertainment industry continues to grapple with the implications of AI, Emanuel's statement serves as a reminder of the need for innovation and adaptability in a rapidly changing landscape.

Emanuel's statement has significant implications for the live events industry, which is a key sector for Endeavor Group Holdings. The company's portfolio includes events like the Oscars, the Grammys, and the Cannes Film Festival, among others. As AI technology continues to advance, live events companies will need to adapt to new business models and technologies to remain competitive. Emanuel's comment highlights the need for the entertainment industry to prioritize innovation and experimentation, rather than simply relying on traditional methods.

The impact of Emanuel's statement also extends to the research community, which has been studying the intersection of AI and live events. Researchers have been exploring the use of AI-powered tools to enhance the live experience, such as virtual reality and augmented reality. However, there are also concerns about the potential risks of AI-powered automation in the live events industry. As Emanuel's statement suggests, the industry is at a crossroads, with the potential to either innovate and thrive or become obsolete.

The intersection of AI and live events is part of a larger pattern of technological disruption in the entertainment industry. The rise of streaming services has transformed the way people consume entertainment, while AI-powered tools are being used to create more personalized and immersive experiences. However, the live events industry has historically been more resistant to change, with many companies clinging to traditional business models.