SAG-AFTRA Union and Publishers Still at an ‘Exasperating Impasse’ Over AI

The ongoing negotiations between the SAG-AFTRA union and game publishers over the use of artificial intelligence in acting are still quite a distance from reaching a resolution. Though some progress has been made, particularly with a few agreed-upon provisions, the gap concerning AI usage remains significant. Members of SAG-AFTRA working in the gaming sector have been on strike since July 2024 due to these unresolved issues.

At the heart of the disagreement lies the publishers’ desire to potentially replicate an actor’s voice without their consent or knowledge for future use. This has led to a major clash in the negotiations.

In a recent statement, SAG-AFTRA expressed disappointment with the current state of talks. “The bargaining group would have you believe that we are close to reaching a deal,” they remarked, clarifying that this perception is misleading.

The union fears an attempt to sow discord among its members, urging them to examine an updated comparison chart on AI proposals. It highlights just how diametrically opposed the two sides remain on securing essential AI protections for performers.

A major point of concern is the publishers’ proposal to use actors’ past performances without offering protections being discussed at the table. This could mean actors might be unaware of their replicas being used, might not receive compensation, and would have no means to contest it. Moreover, publishers might want their replicas to work during a strike, regardless of the actors’ consent. Even with explicit consent, actors might remain in the dark about how their likeness was used.

Despite these challenges, SAG-AFTRA has found success negotiating with other employers. Over 160 game companies have joined in on interim and independent agreements, with the profits from these projects surpassing those of games unaffected by the strike. These agreements have addressed the protections that the main bargaining group seems unwilling to accept — terms that many companies, large and small, have found workable, despite the ongoing resistance from the main group of publishers.