SAG-AFTRA is calling out the use of artificial intelligence in Fortnite after Llama Productions replaced human voice actors with AI for the Darth Vader character.
The move, tied to the recent “AI Darth Vader” rollout in Fortnite, has triggered a formal unfair labor practice (ULP) charge filed with the National Labor Relations Board.
What Happened
Llama Productions, a signatory to SAG-AFTRA’s Interactive Media Agreement and a subsidiary of Epic Games, introduced an AI-generated Darth Vader voice in Fortnite. This version uses technology to mimic James Earl Jones’ iconic performance, which has also sparked fan backlash after the AI Vader started swearing during gameplay, which Epic quickly patched.
But according to SAG-AFTRA, the bigger issue is labor-related.
SAG-AFTRA’s Response
In a statement released on May 19, the union said it supports using technology to honor legacy performances, but only when the performer or estate agrees, and when the union is allowed to bargain the terms.
Note: The family of the late James Earl Jones did work closely with Disney and Epic Games; however, SAG-AFTRA is arguing the unions should have been involved:
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.
Fortnite’s signatory company, Llama Productions, chose to replace the work of human performers with A.I. technology. Unfortunately, they did so without providing any notice of their intent to do this and without bargaining with us over appropriate terms. As such, we have filed an unfair labor practice charge with the NLRB against Llama Productions.
The union claims Llama Productions used AI voices without giving any prior notice or negotiating with SAG-AFTRA. The charge specifically accuses the company of unilaterally changing working conditions in violation of the National Labor Relations Act.
The Unfair Labor Practice Charge
The official complaint states that within the past six months, Llama Productions used AI-generated voices in Fortnite without notifying or bargaining with SAG-AFTRA. This, according to the union, amounts to a breach of federal labor law.
The charge lists Llama Productions’ use of AI as a replacement for union voice actors, with the character of Darth Vader being a key example.
