Lionsgate has appointed Kathleen Grace as Chief AI Officer, marking a strategic step in the entertainment studio’s efforts to embed artificial intelligence into its creative and operational processes. The hire positions Grace to lead AI strategy and execution across the company, as the studio expands how it uses emerging technologies to support content development and business functions.
Grace joins Lionsgate from AI platform Vermillio, where she held senior roles focused on applying artificial intelligence to licensing and protecting intellectual property. Her experience in technology and AI platforms is expected to help the studio navigate opportunities and risks associated with integrating AI into film and television production.
In her new role, Grace will report directly to Lionsgate’s chief executive and be part of the senior leadership team. She will be responsible for shaping AI initiatives, aligning them with broader business objectives, and driving collaboration across creative, technical and operational departments. The appointment reflects Lionsgate’s view that AI is becoming an important enabler in entertainment as studios seek to innovate.
Studies and partnerships in recent years have shown how AI tools can support various aspects of media production. Earlier collaborations between Lionsgate and third-party AI companies offered glimpses into how generative models might be used to augment creative processes. An example of this was Lionsgate’s partnership with AI developer Runway, which created a custom model trained on the studio’s film and television catalogue. This collaboration aimed to support tasks such as storyboarding and visual effects, demonstrating how studios are exploring AI use cases that enhance traditional workflows.
Grace’s appointment comes as Hollywood and the broader media industry evaluate how artificial intelligence can support creation, distribution and audience engagement. AI systems can assist with script analysis, editing workflows, visual effects generation and predictive analytics, among other functions. These tools can help reduce manual effort and provide new avenues for creativity, though they also raise questions about ethical use, workforce impact and creative control.
Lionsgate’s vice chair has previously described AI tools as capable of augmenting and enhancing operations, noting that filmmakers involved in early experiments expressed interest in how such technology might fit into traditional workflows. By formalising AI leadership, the studio aims to balance technological innovation with artistic priorities.
The move positions Lionsgate alongside other entertainment companies that are making AI a strategic priority. While some firms have experimented with AI in isolated projects, bringing AI leadership into the executive suite signals an intent to integrate these technologies more deeply.
Grace’s role will involve coordinating AI efforts that touch on multiple functions, including content optimisation, marketing, production planning and post-production workflows. AI strategies in media often span data analysis, creative support and efficiency gains, and a centralised approach can help ensure coherence and alignment with organisational goals.
One area of interest for studios is the use of AI to streamline pre-production planning and concept generation. By analysing existing assets and patterns, AI systems can offer insights that inform creative decisions. AI can also be used to automate routine aspects of editing and effects work, freeing creative professionals to focus on higher-value tasks.
The entertainment industry has been closely watching legal and regulatory developments related to AI, particularly in relation to copyright and performer rights. New laws in California and agreements negotiated with industry unions have sought to clarify how AI can be used in creating digital likenesses and new content. Lionsgate’s AI strategy will likely need to take such frameworks into account as it deploys tools across projects.
At the same time, industry stakeholders emphasise that AI tools are meant to support human creativity rather than replace it. Many executives point out that artists, writers and directors remain central to the creative process and that AI can be a tool that accelerates and expands what is possible.
Grace’s appointment highlights the growing recognition that AI adoption requires both strategic oversight and technical expertise. Integrating AI responsibly involves not only identifying use cases but also establishing governance structures, managing data environments and ensuring ethical application. As Chief AI Officer, Grace will be expected to help guide these considerations.
Industry analysts note that as studios compete for audience attention and adapt to changing consumption habits, technology capabilities can influence how content is developed and delivered. Streaming platforms, interactive media formats and personalised recommendations are all areas where AI plays a role.
In addition to creative functions, AI is impacting how studios approach marketing and distribution. Predictive analytics can help companies better understand audience preferences, optimise release strategies and tailor promotional campaigns. Effective use of AI in these domains requires careful coordination between technical and business teams.
Lionsgate’s investment in AI leadership also reflects wider technology trends in entertainment. Companies across the media landscape are investing in artificial intelligence to enhance production efficiency, improve audience insights and support innovation. Leadership roles focused on AI strategy and governance are emerging as studios seek to navigate opportunities and risks in this domain.
Grace’s background in AI platforms and her focus on intellectual property protections may be particularly relevant as studios consider both expansion of AI use and the protection of creative assets. Ensuring that AI systems respect copyright and creator rights is a key concern for companies deploying these tools.
By creating a Chief AI Officer role, Lionsgate aims to provide strategic direction for its AI agenda and strengthen decision making around investments in technology. The studio’s AI efforts will likely evolve as tools mature and new use cases emerge, and having dedicated leadership can help coordinate these efforts.
The appointment of Kathleen Grace as Chief AI Officer at Lionsgate marks a notable moment in how entertainment companies are approaching technology leadership. As AI continues to influence multiple facets of media production and business operations, leadership with expertise in artificial intelligence will play an important role in guiding studios through a rapidly changing landscape.