SAG-AFTRA Files Lawsuit Over Fortnite AI Darth Vader Voice Use

Fortnite's recent introduction of an AI-voiced Darth Vader, using a digital recreation of James Earl Jones' iconic voice, has sparked significant controversy and a legal challenge from the actors' union SAG-AFTRA. The union alleges that Epic Games and its subsidiary Llama Productions unfairly replaced human voice actors with AI technology without proper negotiation or notice, raising concerns about the broader implications of AI replacing professional talent in the gaming industry. Although Jones' estate authorized the use of his voice, SAG-AFTRA insists on protecting actors' rights to control such digital replicas and negotiate terms, especially amid ongoing strikes over AI issues. The AI-driven Darth Vader NPC initially generated offensive and inappropriate language, which Epic Games later patched, but the incident intensified debates over the ethics and safety of generative AI in games, particularly those with younger audiences. This case highlights the tension between technological innovation and labor rights, as well as the complexities of using AI to extend the legacies of iconic characters. Meanwhile, Fortnite continues to expand its Star Wars content, including other skins like Darth Jar Jar, though these have not involved similar controversies.