SAG-AFTRA Strikes Against Gaming Giants Over AI Voice Actor Rights and Unfair Labor Practices

September 25, 2024
SAG-AFTRA Strikes Against Gaming Giants Over AI Voice Actor Rights and Unfair Labor Practices
  • This strike represents a pivotal moment for the video game industry as it seeks to address the rights and protections of voice actors.

  • The union's strike is primarily focused on securing protections against AI, which threatens the livelihoods of voice actors by allowing studios to replicate their voices and likenesses without consent.

  • Approximately 2,600 SAG-AFTRA members involved in video game work went on strike after contract negotiations broke down, with AI being a central issue.

  • Despite the challenges, SAG-AFTRA has successfully negotiated agreements with developers for 80 upcoming games that include common-sense AI protections.

  • Sarah Elmaleh, chair of the Interactive Media Agreement Negotiating Committee, expressed disappointment in Formosa's decision to undermine union performers.

  • The union claims that Formosa's actions, including transferring game rights to a shell company and seeking non-union talent, violate labor laws protecting performers' rights.

  • The outcome of the strike and ongoing negotiations remains uncertain, with potential implications for the future of voice acting in video games.

  • The strike is part of broader disputes over AI-related concerns, with Formosa being one of ten major gaming companies involved in negotiations since late July.

  • This strike follows over 18 months of unsuccessful negotiations with various companies, including Activision, Disney, and EA, highlighting ongoing disputes over pay and working conditions.

  • SAG-AFTRA has initiated a strike against major gaming companies, including Formosa Inc., due to concerns over unfair labor practices and the unethical use of artificial intelligence in voice acting.

  • The strike against 'League of Legends' marks a significant move, as it was one of the few major titles that had not previously been impacted by the union's actions.

  • The situation underscores tensions between the union's efforts to protect voice actors and production companies' practices in the gaming industry.

Summary based on 26 sources


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