Actors go on strike over video games AI threat

Hollywood actors and performers are currently facing a significant challenge as they strike against major video game companies over the use of artificial intelligence, or AI, in the gaming industry. This strike involves prominent companies such as Activision, Warner Bros, and Walt Disney, and it has arisen after a lengthy period of negotiations that lasted for a year and a half. The performers are represented by a union known as Sag-Aftra, which includes more than 2,500 individuals who lend their voices and appearances to video game characters. While the two sides have reached agreements on several important matters, including wages and job safety, the issue of AI technology remains a major sticking point. The performers are particularly concerned that gaming studios might use generative AI to replicate their voices and physical likenesses to create animated characters without providing them with fair compensation. In a statement, Sag-Aftra expressed their concerns, stating, 'Although agreements have been reached on many issues. 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 statement highlights the performers' desire for clear protections against the misuse of AI in the industry. The video game studios, however, believe they have already made sufficient concessions to address the union's concerns. Audrey Cooling, a spokesperson for the ten video game producers involved in the negotiations, expressed disappointment that the union chose to walk away from the discussions, stating, 'Our offer is directly responsive to Sag-Aftra’s concerns and extends meaningful AI protections that include requiring consent and fair compensation to all performers working under the Interactive Media Agreement. ' This agreement is crucial for artists who provide voiceover services and on-camera work for video games. The previous agreement, which did not include AI protections, was set to expire in November 2022 but has been extended on a month-to-month basis while negotiations continue. The situation is reminiscent of a previous strike organized by Sag-Aftra, which lasted for 118 days and was the longest in the union's 90-year history. This strike, combined with a separate writers' strike, caused significant disruptions in film and television production, resulting in a loss of over $6. 5 billion for California's economy, according to reports from entertainment industry sources. As the strike unfolds, the performers are determined to advocate for their rights and ensure that they are treated fairly in the evolving landscape of the video game industry.