Epic Games is once again under fire—this time not for in-game balance issues or store disputes, but for its use of artificial intelligence to recreate Darth Vader’s iconic voice in Fortnite.
The Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has filed an unfair labor practice charge against Llama Productions, a subsidiary of Epic Games, alleging that the company replaced unionized voice actors with AI-generated voices without prior negotiation.
The Core of the Controversy
On May 19, 2025, SAG-AFTRA filed a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), asserting that Llama Productions violated labor laws by unilaterally implementing AI-generated voices to replace human performers. The complaint centers on the use of AI to replicate James Earl Jones’ portrayal of Darth Vader in Fortnite, without providing notice to the union or an opportunity to bargain (AP News).
SAG-AFTRA emphasized that while they support technological advancements, any use of AI that replaces union work must be negotiated to protect the rights and livelihoods of their members. The union stated, “We must protect our right to bargain terms and conditions around uses of voice that replace the work of our members” (The Verge).
A Broader Labor Dispute
This incident is part of a larger, ongoing strike by SAG-AFTRA against major gaming companies, including Epic Games, which began in July 2024. The strike was initiated due to concerns over the unregulated use of AI in interactive media and its potential to displace human performers without appropriate compensation or consent (Wikipedia).
The union’s strike underscores the growing tension between technological innovation and labor rights within the gaming industry. As AI becomes more prevalent in game development, unions like SAG-AFTRA are advocating for clear guidelines and agreements to ensure that advancements do not come at the expense of human workers.
Community Reactions
The gaming community has expressed mixed reactions to the news. Some players appreciate the technological feat of integrating an AI-generated Darth Vader voice, while others are concerned about the implications for voice actors and the authenticity of performances.
One Reddit user commented, “I thought James Earl Jones had already agreed to the use of AI for this purpose long before he died.”
Another user added, “If this description is accurate, then it’s an open-and-shut case since the way the voice was implemented in Fortnite is impossible with a real voice actor.”
The Path Forward
As the NLRB investigates the complaint, the outcome could set a significant precedent for how AI is utilized in the gaming industry and its impact on labor practices. If the board rules in favor of SAG-AFTRA, it may lead to stricter regulations and requirements for companies seeking to implement AI-generated performances.
For now, Epic Games has not publicly responded to the allegations. The situation remains a focal point in the ongoing debate over AI’s role in entertainment and the importance of protecting the rights of human performers.
What are your thoughts on the use of AI-generated voices in games? Should companies be required to negotiate with unions before implementing such technology? Share your opinions in the comments below.
