SAG-AFTRA’s Historic Accord with Replica Studios in the AI Era

SAG-AFTRA’s Bold Stand for Actor Rights in Gaming

In a groundbreaking move during extended negotiations with the video game industry, SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) has sealed a pioneering deal with Replica Studios, focusing on the utilization of AI digital voice replicas within the realm of video games.

Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA’s National Executive Director and chief negotiator, made the announcement at the CES tech summit in Las Vegas, standing alongside Replica Studios CEO Shreyas Nivas. The comprehensive agreement encompasses the entire lifecycle of digital voice replicas in video game development.

The terms of the deal include stipulations on minimum rates, transparent storage of performer data, explicit consent for the use of replicas in new projects, limitations on the duration of employing a performance replica without additional compensation, and a stringent focus on performer consent. Crabtree-Ireland emphasized that the agreement showcases SAG-AFTRA’s commitment to collaborating with employers to establish terms that safeguard and benefit their members while embracing opportunities driven by evolving technologies.

This landmark development follows the ratification of SAG-AFTRA‘s deal with film and TV studios in December, concluding a protracted six-month strike. AI technology was a central point of contention during those negotiations, reflecting the concerns of union members.

The recent agreement with Replica Studios is also pivotal in the ongoing negotiations with video game companies, involving the same committee that negotiated the deal. With negotiations extending over a year, the guild has a strike authorization in place, and Crabtree-Ireland hinted at the readiness to employ it if necessary.

The potential strike involves ten major video game companies, including Activision Productions Inc., Take 2 Productions Inc., Blindlight LLC, VoiceWorks Productions, Disney Character Voices Inc., Electronic Arts Productions Inc., Epic Games, Inc., Formosa Interactive LLC, Insomniac Games Inc., Inc., and WB Games Inc.

Crabtree-Ireland expressed optimism that the Replica agreement would inject momentum into the negotiations, urging video game companies to draw inspiration from Replica Studios’ example. As the industry navigates the intersection of AI and entertainment, SAG-AFTRA aims to ensure that AI tools are utilized responsibly and ethically, respecting the consent and rights of performers in the process.

While some social media reactions showcased wariness towards the integration of AI, the Replica Studios deal marks a significant step forward in establishing a framework that balances technological advancements with the protection of artists’ rights and interests.