Hollywood’s Video Game Actors in AI Standoff

For over a year and a half, Hollywood’s video game actors have been locked in negotiations with video game companies. The crux of these talks centers around one contentious issue: artificial intelligence (AI).

While substantial progress has been made regarding wages and job safety, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) faces a significant roadblock. They are seeking protections against the potential misuse of AI in video games.

The Core of the Dispute

SAG-AFTRA’s primary concern is the unchecked use of AI, which could potentially displace voice actors and other performers. They fear that AI could replicate an actor’s voice or likeness without consent, leading to job losses.

Not Just Anti-AI

Crabtree-Ireland stated, “The fundamental issue is the unwillingness of this bargaining group to provide equal protection from AI for all our members.”

Invisible Roles of AI

Actors worry that with AI, game developers might not call them back, reducing future job opportunities. This uncertainty fuels the union’s demand for stronger AI regulations.

Will There Be a Strike?

Past concerns about AI in movies contributed to last year’s four-month SAG-AFTRA strike, highlighting the union’s willingness to take decisive action.

Impact on Young Actors

Losing small roles means less opportunity for beginners to build confidence and experience, potentially stalling their career progression.

Differences in Bargaining

Union members seek a comprehensive deal that includes protections for all involved, not just voice actors.

Recent Developments

Tim Friedlander, president of the National Association of Voice Actors, emphasized the importance of such agreements, highlighting the lack of current technology to track the use of actors’ audio files.

Ethical Concerns of AI Use

Friedlander added, “If my voice is out there… doing something that I wouldn’t say, now I’m potentially in conflict with myself. Now I’m losing work to my own voice.”

The ongoing negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and video game companies highlight the complexities introduced by AI in the entertainment industry.

As both parties navigate these uncharted waters, the focus remains on finding a balance that protects the jobs and rights of performers while embracing technological advancements.

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Emmanuel Kesse

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