SAG-AFTRA Continues Strike Against Video Game Studios
After more than seven months on strike, SAG-AFTRA doesn’t appear close to reaching a deal with major video game studios. Negotiators for the performers’ union recently warned members about the companies’ latest proposals, citing “alarming loopholes” that could leave union members vulnerable to AI abuse—the primary reason behind the ongoing work stoppage.
The memo sent to members highlighted the significant gap between the union’s proposals and those of the video game studios. Despite claims by the studios, negotiators stated that the two sides remain “frustratingly far apart.” Companies involved in the negotiations include Disney Character Voices, Activision Blizzard, Electronic Arts, Warner Bros. Games, Insomniac Games, and others. In October, the bargaining group announced tentative agreements on 24 out of 25 proposals.
SAG-AFTRA’s national executive director, Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, and Interactive Media negotiating chair, Sarah Elmaleh, expressed concerns about the studios’ proposals. They noted that the current offers would allow studios to utilize union members’ past performances and external performances without the necessary protections being negotiated. Additionally, the proposals fail to require studios to disclose how they use a performer’s digital replica after receiving consent.
The union provided a detailed chart outlining its efforts to negotiate specific AI language, such as provisions to end performers’ consent for digital replica use during a strike and require additional studio reports on its use of digital replicas. Furthermore, the union emphasizes the need for employer disclosure regarding the incorporation of a performer’s voice in a digital replica or its use in generative AI chatbots.
In a strong call to action, SAG-AFTRA urged performers to reject job offers from struck companies, especially those who are not regular video game workers. The union emphasized the risks of working without protections against AI misuse and urged members to consider the consequences of undermining their fellow performers’ efforts.
Engaging in negotiations with video game studios for almost two years, SAG-AFTRA initiated the strike in July 2024. Negotiations have been sporadic, with union members occasionally picketing struck companies. The upcoming demonstration at Disney Character Voices in Burbank on March 18 signifies the union’s steadfast resolve in advocating for fair treatment of performers in the video game industry.
Through persistence and unity, SAG-AFTRA continues to champion the rights of its members, emphasizing the importance of protecting performers from AI abuse in the evolving landscape of interactive media agreements. As the strike persists, the union remains dedicated to achieving meaningful progress and ensuring the well-being of all performers involved.