– SAG-AFTRA preparing for potential strike
– Negotiations conclude without agreement
– Increases and protection for members demanded
Members of SAG-AFTRA, the union representing voice performers including actors, may be on the verge of a strike as negotiations with various video game companies come to a close with no deal in place. Despite 19 months of contract negotiations, the union has not yet reached a settlement with the companies and has recommended that its members vote in favor of a strike.
SAG-AFTRA has been pushing for the introduction of residual-based payments that would see performers compensated for games selling over 2 million copies, as well as improved protection for members who perform vocally stressful tasks. The protected vocal stress involved in some roles can lead to long-term throat damage, and in a quote shared with TVLine, a SAG-AFTRA spokesperson stated, “Performers need and deserve a better deal.”
Interactive contract documents revealed that the union has also been requesting contingency bonuses for a share of games selling fewer than 2 million copies, with no evidence of movement on that issue from the video game companies. The union issued a statement citing its disappointment with the failure of negotiations and the employers’ unresponsiveness to the issues raised.
The voice performers have considerable leverage, as key roles and releases may need to be delayed due to any strike, significantly impacting the industry. However, the strike action can only proceed if at least 75% of union members vote in favor, with the deadline for the vote fast approaching on October 15th.