SAG-AFTRA accuses Llama Productions of replacing actors with AI in Fortnite

SAG-AFTRA's latest complaint highlights the growing tension between voice actors and AI technology, as they claim Llama Productions unilaterally changed employment terms by using AI-generated voices, raising significant concerns for the future of voice acting.

Sources:
The HinduTimesofindiaBbc
Updated 2h ago
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Sources: The HinduBbcTimesofindia
SAG-AFTRA has taken a stand against Llama Productions, a subsidiary of Epic Games, by filing an unfair labor practice charge. The union claims that the company has replaced actors' work with AI-generated voices, specifically using Darth Vader's voice in Fortnite without proper notice or bargaining.

The complaint, submitted to the US National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), asserts that Llama Productions made 'unilateral changes to terms and conditions of employment' by utilizing AI-generated voices, which the union argues threatens the livelihood of voice actors. SAG-AFTRA emphasizes the importance of actors and their estates controlling the use of their digital replicas.

In July, SAG-AFTRA called for a strike against major game companies after negotiations regarding the union's interactive media agreement stalled over concerns about unregulated AI use. The union's statement highlights its commitment to protecting the rights of its members and ensuring that they are involved in decisions affecting their work.

SAG-AFTRA believes that the use of AI in this context constitutes a case of 'AI stealing human work', as they argue that the original voice actor should have been chosen for the role instead of relying on AI technology. The controversy surrounding AI's role in the entertainment industry continues to grow, with SAG-AFTRA advocating for the rights of voice actors in the face of advancing technology.
Sources: The HinduBbc
SAG-AFTRA has filed an unfair labor practice charge against Llama Productions, alleging the company replaced actors' work with AI-generated voices in Fortnite, specifically using Darth Vader's voice without proper notice or bargaining, raising concerns over the impact of artificial intelligence on voice actors' rights.
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The union supports the rights of members and their estates to control the use of their digital replicas.
SAG-AFTRA
The Hindu
Key Facts
  • SAG-AFTRA filed an unfair labor complaint against Llama Productions, alleging the company replaced actors' work by using AI to generate Darth Vader's voice in Fortnite without notice.The Hindu
  • Llama Productions, a subsidiary of Epic Games, is accused of failing to bargain in good faith with SAG-AFTRA over the last six months.The Hindu
  • SAG-AFTRA called a strike against major game companies in July over concerns regarding the use of unregulated artificial intelligence.The Hindu
  • The union's complaint alleges that Llama Productions made unilateral changes to employment terms by utilizing AI-generated voices without notice.Bbc
  • James Earl Jones' estate's agreement was crucial for the AI voice recreation of Darth Vader, according to SAG-AFTRA.Bbc
  • SAG-AFTRA believes that actors should have been involved in the decision to use AI for character voices in Fortnite.Timesofindia
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