Actors' Union Secures Landmark AI Protections in Over 120 Video Game Contracts

The entertainment industry is undergoing a transformative shift as the use of artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly prevalent. In a significant development, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has announced that it has signed over 120 video game titles to new union contracts, which include crucial AI protections for actors. This move comes as the union prepares to resume negotiations with major game companies on a new contract for the industry, addressing the use of AI, consent, compensation, and transparency.

Securing Ethical AI Practices in the Gaming Industry

Establishing AI Safeguards for Actors

The new contracts signed by SAG-AFTRA with over 120 video game titles contain the same foundational AI protections that the union is seeking in the Interactive Media Agreement negotiations. This demonstrates that these provisions are not only fair and achievable but also provide employment opportunities for SAG-AFTRA members during the ongoing work stoppage.Sarah Elmaleh, the Chair of the Interactive Media Agreement Negotiating Committee, emphasized the importance of these AI protections, stating, "Humane protections for actors against AI exploitation are not an unreasonable ask — and the success of these contracts shows that most companies agree. They are happy to embrace fundamental, ethical guidelines around this tool – alongside equitable accommodation of it – in order to collaborate with professional talent. And talent are likewise eager and delighted to partner with companies that respect them."

Resuming Negotiations with Major Game Companies

The announcement comes as SAG-AFTRA prepares to resume negotiations with the employer unit, which includes major game companies such as Activision Productions Inc., Blindlight LLC, Disney Character Voices Inc., Electronic Arts Productions Inc., Formosa Interactive LLC, Insomniac Games Inc., Llama Productions LLC, Take 2 Productions Inc., and WB Games Inc.Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator, expressed optimism about the ongoing negotiations, stating, "We've had over 120 contracts signed and there's no sign of things slowing down. As we return to negotiations tomorrow, I hope we are able to reach an agreement on our Interactive Media Agreement, but if not, we will keep on working with the companies that are prepared to agree to fair, ethical, and responsible contract terms, including for the use of artificial intelligence."

Striking for Ethical AI Practices

The announcement comes after SAG-AFTRA went on strike in July 2022, following more than 18 months of negotiations with the video game industry. The union has been protesting in front of the main offices of the major companies involved in the negotiations, demanding fair and ethical treatment for actors, including the proper use of AI technology.The strike and the subsequent negotiations have highlighted the growing importance of AI in the entertainment industry, particularly in the video game sector. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial that the rights and well-being of actors are protected, ensuring that they are not exploited or subjected to unfair practices.

Expanding Union Contracts Amid Negotiations

Despite the ongoing negotiations and the strike, SAG-AFTRA has been able to secure new contracts with over 120 video game titles. This demonstrates the union's commitment to providing employment opportunities for its members and its ability to negotiate fair and ethical terms, even in the face of industry-wide challenges.Crabtree-Ireland's statement underscores the union's determination to continue working with companies that are willing to agree to fair and responsible contract terms, including those related to the use of AI. This approach not only benefits the actors but also sets a precedent for the industry, encouraging companies to adopt more ethical and transparent practices when it comes to the use of AI technology.As the negotiations continue, the industry and the public will be closely watching to see if SAG-AFTRA and the major game companies can reach an agreement that addresses the concerns of actors and ensures a sustainable and ethical future for the video game industry.