The world of gaming was rocked last week as actors went on strike over the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and the threat it poses to their livelihoods. The strike, led by high-profile voice actor Jennifer Hale, has reignited the debate about how the entertainment industry is adapting to new technology.
Hale, known for her iconic roles in games like Mass Effect and Metroid, is one of 2,500 members of the US actors union SAG-AFTRA who are demanding protections around the use of AI in video games. The fear is that AI could be used to reproduce actors’ voices without their consent, potentially replacing them entirely in future games.
The strike, which began on July 25th, has highlighted the disparity in pay between voice actors in games and those in film and TV. Despite the gaming industry generating billions in revenue, voice actors are often paid significantly less than their on-screen counterparts.
While both sides have agreed on many issues, AI protections remain a sticking point in the negotiations. Audrey Cooling, a representative of the game companies, stated that they have offered meaningful AI protections that include requiring consent and fair compensation for performers.
The strike has garnered support from actors’ unions around the world, with UK union Equity standing in solidarity with SAG-AFTRA. However, regulations around strikes differ in the UK, and UK members of SAG-AFTRA are not compelled to strike.
As the strike continues, actors like David Menkin, who has provided voices for games like Lego Star Wars and Final Fantasy, are concerned that US companies may try to work around the strike by hiring British talent instead.
In the midst of the strike, Jennifer Hale remains hopeful that a resolution can be reached that prioritizes long-term creative concerns over short-term commercial gain. She emphasizes the importance of unity in the face of technological advancements that threaten the livelihoods of actors.
The strike serves as a reminder of the growing unease in the workplace with AI and the need for protections to ensure fair treatment of actors in the ever-evolving entertainment industry.
