SAG-AFTRA, representing over 160,000 members, has charged Epic Games with an unfair labor practice due to the introduction of an AI-driven Darth Vader in Fortnite without prior communication or negotiations with the union. The AI's voice mimicked the late James Earl Jones with permission, but the union argues that using AI technologies replaces human performers' work and compromises their rights. They emphasize the importance of bargaining over the terms affecting their membersâ work and maintaining control over digital representations of their legacies.
"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."
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