The growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the entertainment industry has sparked concerns among actors and animation professionals about job security and the potential loss of traditional craftsmanship. SAG-AFTRA, a union representing actors, is pushing for stronger protections against AI voice usage, particularly in game development.
Glen Keane, an animation legend, has expressed his unease with the increasing reliance on digital tools to create characters and environments in animated films. He joins a growing chorus of industry professionals who are concerned about the homogenization of style that AI-generated content may bring.
In response, FILMPAC has announced SUPERSET, a custom AI video training dataset launching in Summer 2025, which aims to address challenges in generative AI by providing high-quality, human-driven video footage. SAG-AFTRA's negotiating committee chair Sarah Elmaleh and national executive director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland are urging non-striking game studios to sign an interim agreement that provides protections against AI voice usage.
The use of AI tools raises questions about the role of human actors in the industry, as they may be replaced by AI-generated voices. SAG-AFTRA is highlighting the need for stronger safeguards as the industry continues to evolve and incorporate more AI technology.