SAG-AFTRA Union Finalizes Landmark Agreement to Protect Voice Actors from AI Exploitation
2025-07-10 21:39:43The Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has successfully concluded negotiations with major video game publishers, culminating in the ratification of the Interactive Media Agreement. This landmark contract establishes critical protections for voice actors and performance capture artists against the unregulated use of artificial intelligence in game development.
After an 11-month strike that began in 2024, the union reached a tentative agreement in June 2025 with industry giants including Electronic Arts and Activision. The newly ratified contract addresses growing concerns about AI's impact on creative professions, particularly the potential for studios to replicate performers' voices and movements without consent or fair compensation.
Key provisions of the agreement include:
- Minimum 7% wage increases in the first year, with subsequent annual raises
- Mandatory informed consent for any AI usage involving performers' likenesses or voices
- Transparent disclosure requirements for AI implementations
- Compensation structures for digital replicas of performers
- Right to suspend AI usage during future labor disputes
The agreement received overwhelming support from union members, with 95% voting in favor. SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher praised the outcome, stating: "This contract establishes vital safeguards to ensure human performers remain at the heart of interactive storytelling while setting ethical boundaries for emerging technologies."
Industry representatives also expressed satisfaction with the resolution. Spokesperson Audrey Cooling noted: "This agreement allows us to maintain our creative partnerships with performers while continuing to deliver innovative experiences for players worldwide."
The settlement marks a significant victory for performers following initial proposals that would have allowed unrestricted AI training using actors' performances. While the rapid evolution of AI technology may require future contract adjustments, this agreement creates an important precedent for protecting creative professionals in the digital age.