Last week, Epic had to implement a hotfix to prevent Fortnite users from making the newly introduced AI-powered Darth Vader from using profanity and slurs with James Earl Jones’s voice. Today, AI Vader has stirred up another issue: SAG-AFTRA has initiated a complaint of unfair labor practices against Epic Games, claiming that the company’s deployment of AI-generated voices violated the established terms and conditions of employment agreed upon in union negotiations.

SAG-AFTRA stated, “We uphold our members’ rights to manage the usage of their digital replicas and welcome technological advancements that enable new generations to enjoy those iconic roles. However, we also must safeguard our ability to negotiate terms regarding the use of voice that replaces the contributions of our members, including those responsible for mimicking Darth Vader’s iconic tone in video games.” Source

Video game performers represented by SAG-AFTRA, which advocates for over 150,000 actors, writers, singers, and other media professionals, have been on strike since July 2024 following the breakdown of contract discussions with video game developers regarding protections against AI.

In its filing of an unfair labor practice complaint with the NLRB, SAG-AFTRA accuses Epic of using AI-generated voices in Fortnite to bypass collective bargaining negotiations related to protected work, claiming that Epic’s actions demonstrate a refusal to negotiate in good faith by unilaterally altering employment conditions without informing the union or allowing for negotiation.

PC Gamer has contacted Epic for a response and will update the article if a statement is received.