SAG-AFTRA Submits Unfair Labor Practice Charge Against AI Darth Vader in Fortnite

SAG-AFTRA Files Unfair Labor Practice Charge Against Llama Productions

SAG-AFTRA has lodged an unfair labor practice charge against Llama Productions regarding its involvement with Epic Games in utilizing an AI-generated version of Darth Vader’s voice for Fortnite. This action is not due to the mere fact that AI was used, but rather the methods employed by Llama Productions in deploying this technology.

James Earl Jones, the legendary voice behind Darth Vader and numerous other iconic roles, had previously signed a deal with Respeecher prior to his passing, which permitted the use of his archived voice work. Nonetheless, SAG-AFTRA’s charge emphasizes that the complaint arises from Llama Productions’ lack of communication and negotiation with the union over the use of AI.

According to SAG-AFTRA, the company failed to inform the union of its intentions and did not engage in discussions regarding appropriate terms for using the AI version of Jones’ voice. The union articulated this concern in a statement, highlighting the importance of maintaining rights to bargain over voice work that may replace contributions from union members.

“We must protect our right to bargain terms and conditions around uses of voice that replace the work of our members, including those who previously did the work of matching Darth Vader’s iconic rhythm and tone in video games.”- SAG-AFTRA

The charge is grounded in specifics outlined in the official filing. It states that within the last six months, Llama Productions unilaterally changed terms of employment without notifying or negotiating with the union, which is a breach of their agreement.

Critically, SAG-AFTRA claims that the core issue lies not in the technology used but in Llama Productions’ alleged circumvention of union protocols, opting instead to work directly with Respeecher and Epic Games to deploy the AI-generated voice for Darth Vader.

The family of James Earl Jones expressed their thoughts when the AI version of Darth Vader was first revealed. They stated, “James Earl felt that the voice of Darth Vader was inseparable from the story of Star Wars, and he always wanted fans of all ages to continue to experience it. We hope that this collaboration with Fortnite will allow both longtime fans of Darth Vader and newer generations to share in the enjoyment of this iconic character.”

Shortly after the AI version debuted in Fortnite, reports surfaced of players manipulating the character to make him utter profanity and even offensive terms.

The ongoing strike involving SAG-AFTRA members under the Interactive Media Agreement (IMA) remains unresolved, potentially affecting future projects if a consensus is not reached soon. The union recently issued a rebuttal to the game studios’ proposals, which failed to provide protections regarding generative AI for performances before the new contract.

This situation illustrates the complexities and contentious negotiations surrounding AI in the entertainment industry, hinting at a prolonged negotiation process if significant progress is not made soon.

Source & Images

Related Articles:

Borderlands 4: Key Details and Updates on the Next Installation of the Iconic Looter Shooter

Nintendo Acknowledges Frame Rate Issues in Donkey Kong Bananza

Weekend PC Game Deals: Final Fantasy at Low Prices, Bundled Borderlands Offers, and Free Strategy Games

Electronic Arts May Have Paused the Need for Speed Franchise

Vivi-Inspired Final Fantasy IX Mug and Bag Design

Emergency Update KB5061768 for Windows 10 Resolves BitLocker Boot Loop Issues

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *