SAG-AFTRA Members Approve New IMA Contract, Concluding Video Game Voice Actor Strike

Victory for SAG-AFTRA: New Interactive Media Agreement Ratified

Members of SAG-AFTRA have decisively approved an updated Interactive Media Agreement (IMA), ending the strike that began in July 2024. This contract governs the employment of voice actors within the video game industry, and the approval marks a significant milestone after three years of rigorous negotiations.

Key Issues Addressed in Negotiations

The protracted negotiations were primarily focused on the implications of generative AI technology. Voice actors were concerned that without proper protections, their voices and likenesses could be exploited by video game companies without fair compensation or consent. The newly ratified agreement not only introduces wage increases but also establishes vital safeguards against potential misuse of AI by employers.

Innovative Protections Included in the Contract

According to SAG-AFTRA’s statement regarding the deal, the new contract features important safety provisions. These include:

Consent and disclosure requirements for the use of AI-generated digital replicas.
The ability for actors to withdraw consent for the creation of new AI material during a strike.

Leadership Praise for Successful Bargaining Efforts

SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher expressed her appreciation for the efforts led by negotiating chair Sarah Elmaleh.“Her unwavering determination amid the challenges we faced was instrumental in achieving this deal, which includes critical advancements in AI protections, ”Drescher noted. She also acknowledged the solidarity shown by the video game performer community as a key factor in securing these advancements.

Additionally, Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA’s chief negotiator and national executive director, conveyed heartfelt gratitude to performers who stood firm throughout the 11-month strike. He lauded the Interactive Media Agreement Negotiating Committee for their relentless dedication to ensuring that necessary protections were developed alongside their negotiating staff, especially lead negotiator Ray Rodriguez.

Industry Response to the New Agreement

From the industry side, spokesperson Audrey Cooling of major video game companies, including Take-Two, Activision, and EA, expressed satisfaction with the ratification.“We are delighted that SAG-AFTRA members have approved a new Interactive Media Agreement, which brings historic wage increases and leading-edge AI protections, ”she stated.“We look forward to continuing our partnership with the union to create innovative entertainment for players around the globe.”

The Road Ahead: A Future Free from Disruption

With the agreement now ratified, voice actors under the IMA can look ahead, free from the looming threat of strikes or contract negotiations for a few years. This resolution also alleviates concerns about potential delays in game releases that had arisen due to unavailability of voice talent during the strike.

The approval of this contract signals not only a resolution to ongoing disputes but also a promising future for collaboration between SAG-AFTRA members and video game companies.

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