SAG-AFTRA Rejects Video Game Companies' Proposal on AI Replicas

May 8, 2025 - 14:34

SAG-AFTRA has firmly rejected a proposal from video game companies that sought to implement buyout offers for the use of digital replicas of performers. This decision underscores the union's commitment to safeguarding the rights and livelihoods of its members in the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry.

The union is advocating for comprehensive protections that would prevent the use of performers' digital likenesses during strikes, which could potentially undermine the bargaining power of its members. The ongoing negotiations highlight the growing concerns surrounding the implications of AI technology in video games, particularly regarding how digital replicas are created, utilized, and compensated.

As discussions continue, SAG-AFTRA is determined to ensure that any agreements reached prioritize the welfare of performers and establish clear guidelines for the ethical use of AI in the industry. The outcome of these negotiations could set significant precedents for the future of labor relations in video games and beyond.