Dan Snow's new documentary, 'Pompeii: Life in the City with Dan Snow', has left some viewers unsettled by its use of an AI-generated voice. The programme, which aired on Channel 5, features Snow's typically enthusiastic presenting style, but the inclusion of a synthetic narrator has drawn criticism for being eerie and distracting.
The documentary aims to explore daily life in ancient Pompeii before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Snow, known for his energetic delivery, is joined by historian Kate Lister, who examines the city's social structures, including the role of slavery and the lives of sex workers. Lister notes that graffiti left by enslaved women offers rare insight into their experiences.
Viewers have taken to social media to express discomfort with the AI voice, describing it as 'creepy' and 'robotic'. Some have questioned the need for artificial narration when the presenters themselves provide ample commentary. The show's producers have not yet responded to the backlash.
Despite the controversy, the programme has been praised for its engaging content, including details about Pompeii's one-way traffic system and the taxation of urine. However, critics argue that the first episode is too coy about the volcanic eruption, focusing instead on mundane aspects of Roman life.
The series continues next Tuesday at 9pm on Channel 5, with future episodes expected to cover the eruption in more depth.
