SAG-AFTRA Takes Legal Action Over AI-Generated Darth Vader Voice in Fortnite
SAG-AFTRA has taken legal action against Llama Productions, a subsidiary of Epic Games, over the use of an AI-generated Darth Vader voice in Fortnite. The union filed an unfair labor practice (ULP) charge with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).
The controversy started when players discovered they could interact with an AI version of Darth Vader in the game. The AI voice sounded similar to James Earl Jones, who famously voiced the character.
Some players even managed to get the AI to say inappropriate things before Epic Games fixed the issue. Now, SAG-AFTRA has stepped in, saying that Llama Productions replaced human performers without any notice or bargaining.
In an official statement, SAG-AFTRA said, “We celebrate the right of our members and their estates to control the use of their digital replicas and welcome the use of new technologies to allow new generations to share in the enjoyment of those legacies and renowned roles. However, we must protect our right to bargain terms and conditions around uses of voice that replace the work of our members, including those who previously did the work of matching Darth Vader’s iconic rhythm and tone in video games.”
The union stressed that replacing human voices with AI without discussing the terms violates their members’ rights. They are fighting to ensure that any use of AI technology in place of real voices is negotiated properly.
SAG-AFTRA claims that Llama Productions made this decision without informing them or negotiating terms. They believe that actors and their estates should have control over how their voices and digital likenesses are used.
Fortnite and Epic Games have not yet responded to the filing. As of now, players can still find the Darth Vader AI voice in the game, but the legal battle is just beginning.
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