SAG-AFTRA members have officially ended the video game voice actor strike, marking a significant milestone in the entertainment industry. Members overwhelmingly approved the new Interactive Media Agreement (IMA) after nearly three years of negotiations, which included crucial protections against the growing influence of generative AI technologies.
The new deal, ratified by a resounding 95.04% of members, includes not only a wage increase but also safeguards against companies using AI to replicate actors’ voices and likenesses without consent or fair compensation.
The core issue that sparked the strike, which began in July 2024, was the increasing use of AI in video game production. Actors were concerned that companies might exploit this technology to bypass their rights, leading to a protracted negotiation period. However, the new IMA contract addresses these concerns by requiring companies to obtain explicit consent for the use of AI-generated digital replicas and ensures that performers can revoke consent during a strike.
SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher expressed her admiration for the leadership of Sarah Elmaleh, the chair of the IMA negotiating committee, for her determination and resilience throughout the lengthy bargaining process. Drescher also highlighted the importance of this deal in achieving significant progress in AI protections. Chief negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland thanked the video game performers and their allies for their sacrifices, which ultimately provided the leverage needed to secure this historic deal.
For the video game companies, spokesperson Audrey Cooling expressed satisfaction with the new agreement, emphasizing historic wage increases and enhanced AI protections. Cooling also expressed optimism about the future of the industry and the continued collaboration between SAG-AFTRA and the video game companies.
With the new contract now in place, video game actors can look forward to increased protections, fairer compensation, and a stable working environment for the foreseeable future. The end of the strike means that game production can proceed without further delays, and the industry can continue to deliver innovative experiences to players worldwide.