UK Voice Actors Face Contract Nightmare Amidst AI Exploitation

The recent conclusion of the SAG-AFTRA strike in the US has brought some clarity to contracts for game actors, with agreements on pay scales and clear disclosure over the use of AI-generated digital replicas. However, in the UK, the situation remains a mess, with performers facing weaker laws, non-existent residuals, and an opaque commissioning process. The main actors' union, Equity, has only recently started to engage with the sector, and its efforts are hindered by outdated laws and a lack of collective bargaining power. As a result, UK talent is in a weaker position than their US counterparts, with many forced to navigate complex and often exploitative contracts. The rise of AI has further complicated the issue, with many actors worried about their voices being used to train AI models without their consent or compensation. The problem is exacerbated by the lack of standardization in buyouts, which are meant to reflect the potential sales of a game, but are often calculated in different ways, causing confusion and disputes. The situation has led to calls for greater protection and standardization of contracts, as well as more education and awareness about the issues faced by voice actors in the UK. Some initiatives, such as the TIVA project, are aiming to promote the use of human voice actors and provide a platform for them to showcase their work, while also highlighting the limitations and potential risks of relying on AI-generated voices.