SAG-AFTRA Videogame Performers Go On Strike Over AI And Pay

Videogame voice actors and motion-capture performers have decided to strike following failed negotiations with major game studios over AI-related protections. This strike, starting July 26, adds another work stoppage in Hollywood, following months of talks with companies like Activision, EA, and Disney.

SAG-AFTRA, the union representing these performers, stated, "Although agreements have been reached on many issues important to SAG-AFTRA members, the employers refuse to plainly affirm, in clear and enforceable language, that they will protect all performers covered by this contract in their AI language." This strike comes after a similar action last year by film and TV actors over AI concerns.

Fran Drescher, SAG-AFTRA president, said, "We’re not going to consent to a contract that allows companies to abuse AI to the detriment of our members. Enough is enough."

Strike looks for protection of motion-capture performers

One key issue is the protection of motion-capture performers. Ray Rodriguez, SAG-AFTRA Chief Contracts Officer, emphasised, "The industry has told us point blank that they do not necessarily consider everyone who is rendering movement performance to be a performer that is covered by the collective bargaining agreement." Without proper safeguards, AI could be used to replicate an actor’s voice or likeness without consent.

Andi Norris, a union negotiator, highlighted the diverse roles these performers take on, from zombies to soldiers, and stressed that all their work must be protected. "We cannot and will not accept that a stunt or movement performer giving a full performance on stage next to a voice actor isn’t a performer," Norris stated.

Despite the strike, video game companies remain open to negotiations. Audrey Cooling, spokesperson for the video game producers, said, "We are disappointed the union has chosen to walk away when we are so close to a deal, and we remain prepared to resume negotiations."

SAG-AFTRA push for higher wages for voice actors and motion-capture performers

The strike has significant implications for the gaming industry, which generates over $100 billion annually according to game market forecaster Newzoo. Voice actors and motion-capture performers play a crucial role in bringing games to life, yet their pay hasn't kept pace with inflation. SAG-AFTRA is pushing for higher wages, better medical treatment, and more breaks for these performers.

The last interactive contract, which expired in November 2022, did not include AI protections. It did secure bonus compensation for voice actors and performance capture artists after an 11-month strike that began in 2016. The new agreement aims to build on these protections, with the union seeking a contract that fully addresses their AI concerns.

Performers attending San Diego Comic-Con exempt from strike

As negotiations continue, SAG-AFTRA is encouraging its members to remain informed and engaged. Sarah Elmaleh, chair of the union’s Interactive Media Agreement Negotiating Committee, noted that performers attending San Diego Comic-Con are exempt from the strike, allowing them to share their message and engage with fans while understanding the full scope of the strike order.

“It’s just out of consideration in fact that this is happening very quickly, and our members are no doubt going to take some time to absorb the the full scope of strike order and the rules and all of that other stuff,” Elmaleh said. “We feel very passionately that being at Comic Con in order to share what it is we need, why we need it, is the best way to serve this action.”