SAG-AFTRA Strike

Members of the USA actors union SAG-AFTRA have confirmed they'll be going on strike from tomorrow, 26th July 2024, over concerns relating to AI usage in the industry. Video game performers — such as voice actors — have been in talks with some of the biggest game publishers (including Activision, EA, Take-Two, and more) over a new type of Interactive Media Agreement to protect their work and rights, but have failed to reach a positive conclusion. As a result, members will go on strike from tomorrow.

The union's official website states: "SAG-AFTRA is striking this contract so that members working in interactive media (video games) can continue earning a living doing the job that they love. Our members’ work and likenesses are being exploited by artificial intelligence, and video game companies have refused to plainly affirm, in clear and enforceable language, that they will protect all performers covered by this contract in their A.I. language."

While talks between the parties signalled progress on topics like wages and job safety, the use of AI remained a sticking point. The FAQ page from SAG-AFTRA continues: "Actors are workers. Like all workers, game performers deserve to make a living under conditions that are safe and humane."

"Additionally, your favorite performances are brought to life through the artistry of human actors who improvise, tap into personal experiences, and collaborate with writers and directors to create a performance that only they could provide. No two actors are the same, and every performance is unique. Generative A.I. tools threaten to replace these artists with derivative, machine-recycled performance, lacking perspective or surprise. A.I.-generated performances will not carry the originality, pathos or humor of an actual human actor." To show your support for the strike, SAG-AFTRA is calling for social media hashtags #LevelUpTheContract, #VideoGameContract, and #SagAftraStrong to be used.

Publishers that were part of the failed negotiations included Activision, Disney, EA, Insomniac Games, Take-Two, and Warner Bros. "We’re not going to consent to a contract that allows companies to abuse A.I. 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," said SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher.

In a statement shared with Push Square, Audrey Cooling, the spokesperson for the Interactive Media Agreement, responded to the strike announcement with the following: "We are disappointed the union has chosen to walk away when we are so close to a deal, and we remain prepared to resume negotiations. We have already found common ground on 24 out of 25 proposals, including historic wage increases and additional safety provisions. 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 IMA. These terms are among the strongest in the entertainment industry."

[source sagaftra.org, via sagaftra.org]