Star Trek: Discovery star Shazad Latif has issued a stark and sobering warning about the rapid development of artificial intelligence, comparing its potential threat to humanity to that of an atomic bomb.
In an exclusive and wide-ranging interview, the actor, famed for his role as Chief Engineer Reno, expressed profound concern that the breakneck speed of AI innovation is wildly outpacing essential government regulation and safety protocols.
A Chilling Comparison to History's Greatest Threat
Latif didn't mince his words when drawing a parallel to one of the most destructive forces ever created. "It's an atomic bomb," he stated emphatically. "It really is. And we're just letting it go. We're letting all these companies do it."
His comments highlight a growing fear among experts and public figures: that without stringent oversight, AI technology could spiral into an uncontrollable and existential risk.
The Urgent Call for Government Intervention
The central thrust of Latif's argument is a desperate plea for governmental bodies to step in before it's too late. He voiced his frustration at the lack of preparedness, suggesting authorities are "completely behind on it" and seemingly without a concrete plan to manage the technology's evolution.
This isn't just a theoretical concern for the actor; it's a palpable fear for the future. He passionately argued that the creation of AI should be treated with the same gravity and international caution as the development of nuclear weapons, demanding immediate and serious global dialogue.
Beyond the Final Frontier: From Sci-Fi to Reality
There's a certain irony that an actor from a franchise built on a hopeful, technology-driven future is sounding the alarm on technology itself. Having worked on one of television's most famous sci-fi shows, Latif has a unique perspective on the fine line between fictional cautionary tales and our impending reality.
His warning serves as a powerful reminder that the dilemmas often explored in science fiction are now knocking firmly on our door, requiring real-world solutions and responsible stewardship.
