- Actors union has called for strike action over the use of AI
- Strike is effective immediately but doesn’t affect Comic Con appearances
- Video game companies are dismayed at the action but remain willing to negotiate
Blockbuster video games such as Grand Theft Auto 6 could be delayed after the union representing voice actors decided to go on strike.
The SAG-AFTRA union, which represents voice and motion capture actors, has decided to take the action after negotiations over a new contract broke down over the use of artificial intelligence (AI).
Flexible strike
The strike became effective from one minute past midnight on July 26 – although it does have some flexibility in it as it will not apply at the currently ongoing Comic-Con, where various actors in the union are appearing – and it is hoped actors can get the message out about why they are going out on strike while they are there.
The strike comes after attempts to renegotiate the Interactive Media Agreement broke down. The affected video game companies include Take 2 Productions Inc – which publishes the GTA series – as well as other giants in the sector such as Activision Productions Inc, Disney Character Voices Inc, Electronic Arts Productions Inc and WB Games Inc.
Willing to talk
SAG-AFTRA’s president, Fran Drescher, said in a statement that the union was “not going to consent to a contract that allows companies to abuse AI to the detriment of our members. Enough is enough. When these companies get serious about offering an agreement our members can live – and work – with, we will be here, ready to negotiate.”
In response, the video game producers said – as reported by Deadline – that they were “disappointed” that the union had chosen to walk away from talks despite being close to a deal. However, the statement added that the producers remain willing to resume negotiations and are willing to offer protections around AI for performers.
