SAG-AFTRA Files Complaint Over AI Use for Darth Vader’s Voice in Fortnite

SAG-AFTRA Files Complaint Over AI Use for Darth Vader’s Voice in Fortnite

Last Updated May - 20 - 2025, 02:52 PM | Source : Fela News

SAG-AFTRA accuses Llama Productions of using AI to replicate Darth Vader’s voice in Fortnite without union approval, alleging unfair labor practices and failure

On Monday, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) filed an unfair labor practice complaint against Llama Productions, accusing the company of using artificial intelligence to replicate Darth Vader’s voice in Fortnite without informing or negotiating with the union. Llama Productions, a subsidiary of Epic Games, allegedly bypassed the union by making unilateral decisions that replaced union members' work, according to SAG-AFTRA.

The union claims Llama Productions has refused to engage in good-faith negotiations over the past six months, implementing changes to employment terms without proper notice or bargaining. Epic Games has not yet responded to requests for comment.

SAG-AFTRA initiated a strike against major video game companies in July after talks over its interactive media agreement collapsed, largely due to concerns about unregulated AI use in the industry.

In a statement, the union emphasized its support for members’ and their estates’ rights to control the use of their digital likenesses. However, it stressed the need to preserve the right to negotiate the use of AI-generated voices, especially when they replace performers who have previously contributed to iconic roles—such as those who voiced Darth Vader in video games, capturing the character’s distinct tone and cadence.

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