Union’s chief negotiator predicts video game performers could go on strike for an entire year
According to the union representing striking workers in the US, video game performers could potentially be on strike for up to a year due to concerns over artificial intelligence (AI), including generative AI use in the industry. More than 2,500 performers from major video game studios like Activision, EA, Warner Bros. Games, and Blindlight have been on strike since July 26.
The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) is calling for new protections for performers in relation to AI. Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the union’s chief negotiator, stated in an interview with Sky News that the strike could last a year despite beliefs that the studios could avoid delays in production.
In the past, SAG-AFTRA has gone on strike for similar protections, which resulted in industry delays and financial losses. This current strike revolves around the use of AI based on on-camera performers, such as stunt and motion performers who act out character actions for animation.
Picketers at Warner Bros. Games headquarters on 1 August. Pic: AP
The union hopes to reach a resolution with the studios to provide historic wage increases and industry-leading AI protections to video game performers and end the strike. Follow Sky News for further updates on the ongoing strike and negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and the video game producers.
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