The ongoing disruption caused by generative AI in the voice acting field intensifies, with a current SAG-AFTRA strike in the US evidencing the turmoil faced by voice actors. EA is allegedly pushing for its French Apex Legends cast to facilitate AI training that could ultimately supplant them.

Voice actor Pascale Chemin (Wraith) recently revealed via Instagram that she and 31 fellow voice artists rejected an offer to sign an agreement that deemed unacceptable terms, as advised by a legal expert specializing in audiovisual contracts.

“We are asked to shoot ourselves in the foot.”
“Nous sommes invités à nous tirer une balle dans le pied.”

Chemin’s connection to the role spans six years, aligning with the character’s introduction in Apex Legends in 2019. She shared that the studio’s email concerning a confidentiality agreement compelled cast members to accept the terms before being able to contribute their work:

“We were faced with terms that we couldn’t accept.”

In unity, Chemin and her colleagues penned a collective letter notifying the publisher of their refusal. In her view, refusal by all would prompt change; without it, they risked their profession’s future.

“We are asked to give up our expertise to train the generative AI that will replace us tomorrow.”

Propelled by a shared goal, the 32 voice actors in unison turned down the additional requirements set forth, awaiting the publisher’s response. Chemin emphasized, “We need a clause in our contracts to preserve our voices, not just for our situation, but for all dubbing studios in video games.”

Pascale Chemin reiterated the precarious situation, indicating that acquiescing would lead to their replacement by machines: “Video game publishers want to force their way through.”

It remains to be seen how the situation will evolve as players and companies navigate the intricacies of AI in the voice acting industry.