Over 300 video game performers and Hollywood actors protested in front of Warner Bros. Studios, demanding equal protections for unionized voice actors and motion capture workers against the unregulated use of artificial intelligence.
Duncan Crabtree Ireland, the national executive director of SAG-Aftra, stated that AI has become a major issue in the union’s negotiations.
The protest is the first large-scale labor movement after video game workers voted to strike due to stalled negotiations with Warner Bros. Games over protections for AI use.
Union leaders express concerns about AI being a threat to performers by replicating their likenesses without consent or fair compensation.
Activist Constantine Anthony emphasized the importance of human storytellers over AI in video games.
Audrey Cooling, a spokeswoman for video game makers, mentioned proposing increased wages for performers represented by Thug Aftra along with AI protections.
According to market analysts, the global video games industry is projected to generate significant revenue in the coming years.
The goal is to reach an agreement with the union to end the strike and ensure performers’ participation in productions.
Source: www.theguardian.com
