This study examines the emotional dimensions of journalists’ experiences with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into media practices. Grounded in a transdisciplinary theoretical framework, the research draws on Hochschild’s (1983) theory of emotional labor, Freire’s (1970) critical pedagogy, and Galtung’s (1996) conflict theory, alongside the ontological perspective of ser-estando proposed by Kusch (1976). These frameworks are complemented by contributions from emotion studies and cultural psychology, which emphasize the socially constructed and historically situated nature of emotional experience. By situating emotional labor within the context of technological disruption, the study builds upon prior research highlighting the psychological impact of rapid technological change on journalists. The qualitative approach, based on in-depth interviews with journalists from seven countries, is designed to investigate how professional identities, ethical concerns, and emotional experiences intersect in an era increasingly shaped by AI. This inquiry advocates for a human-centered and ethically attuned understanding of AI integration in journalism, emphasizing the importance of emotional awareness, critical thinking, and professional care in addressing emerging technological challenges.