In a landmark move, YouTube has demonetized several major AI-generated trailer channels, including Screen Culture and KH Studio, for violating its content and monetization policies.
The platform’s crackdown comes after an in-depth investigation by Deadline, revealing how these channels produced and profited from fake trailers for unreleased films, often redirecting ad revenue toward studios like Warner Bros., Discovery, and Sony Pictures.
Despite using IP from these studios, YouTube determined that the videos were misleading, breaching its misinformation and reuse policies. Specifically, the platform cited its rules against “duplicative or repetitive” content and deceptive editing that mimics official trailers, deceiving viewers.
YouTube has removed these AI-trailer channels from the YouTube Partner Program, effectively cutting off their ability to earn ad revenue. Each channel had close to a million subscribers and racked up hundreds of millions of views. Companion channels like Screen Trailers and Royal Trailer, operated by the same creators, were also targeted in subsequent enforcement waves.
According to YouTube, content compiled from previously shot footage using AI editing tools does not qualify as original content and cannot be monetized. The platform emphasized that such videos mislead viewers and erode trust, especially when presented without clear disclaimers.
In response, some affected channels have started relabeling their videos as “concept trailers” to remain in good standing and appeal to YouTube’s decision. However, the platform’s move signals a broader shift toward tighter regulation of AI-generated content, especially content that exploits hype for unreleased movies.
With over 122 million daily active users, YouTube’s decisive stance could reshape how AI creators operate on the platform. This enforcement wave is likely to set a new precedent for handling low-effort or misleading AI content, forcing creators to be more transparent or risk losing monetization privileges entirely.
