SAG-AFTRA Union and Publishers Still Deeply Divided on AI Issues

The ongoing negotiations between the SAG-AFTRA union and game publishers over the role of artificial intelligence in acting are proving to be complex, with a resolution seemingly quite distant.

In a recent update on their website, SAG-AFTRA acknowledged some progress had been made in discussions, with certain points being tentatively agreed upon. However, the union expressed clear frustration over the lack of agreement particularly concerning AI. Since July 2024, actors involved in video games have been on strike, emphasizing their concerns over AI’s potential misuse.

The crux of the issue lies in the desire of some publishers to recreate actors’ voices using AI, potentially deploying these voice replicas in future projects without the actors’ consent or knowledge. This idea understandably raises red flags for many in the industry.

According to a statement from SAG-AFTRA, there’s a misconception being floated that both sides are nearing a resolution. “This simply isn’t true,” they stressed. They also warned against division among their ranks, urging members to check an updated comparison chart on AI proposals to understand the wide gap still present in negotiations.

The union highlighted scenarios where publishers could, without any agreed protections, use past performances and other sourced content outside the existing contract terms. Actors could find themselves left in the dark about their voice replicas being used, without additional payment or any control over the situation. There’s also a troubling possibility that these replicas might even be used in times of strikes, against the actors’ wishes. Additionally, once actors consent to certain uses of their replicas, there seems to be no requirement for companies to disclose how those replicas are ultimately employed.

Despite these obstacles, SAG-AFTRA noted successes in securing deals with other employers. Over 160 games have signed interim and independent agreements with the union, showcasing that their proposed protections are not only workable but also agreeable to a diverse range of game companies. These agreements have generated earnings that surpass those from games still embroiled in the dispute, showing that many in the industry are willing to meet the union’s demands — even as the main bargaining groups hold out.