AI voice causes legal trouble

Can Epic Games use a AI version of Darth Vader’s voice in Fortnite? The Sag-Aftra actor union fights with a complaint against the publisher, although the family of the late James Earl Jones agreed to use.

AI Vader causes trouble

The US actor union SAG-ATTRA has submitted a complaint about unfair labor practices against Epic Games. The reason is the use of a AI generated version of Darth Vader’s voice in Fortnite. The union sees a violation of applicable labor law and calls for consequences. It was only on May 16, 2025 that Disney and Epic Games introduced the new function, which enables players to interact with a AI version of Darth Vader.

The company emphasizes that audio data and transcriptions of the players are not saved and are not used to train AI models. How The Hollywood Reporter reports, the negotiations between SAG-Aftra and the video game manufacturers have progressed in topics such as payment and services, but the parties are still widely apart when using AI. The union calls for clear regulations for the use of AI generated votes, while the game manufacturers insist on more flexibility.

Complex conflict about AI rights

The family of the late James Earl Jones had expressly approved the use of his voice (on request and in consultation with the actor) and explained: “James Earl was convinced that Darth Vader’s voice was inextricably linked to Star Wars history, and he always wanted fans of all ages to experience them.” Zeke Alton, a member of the SAG -Aftra negotiation committee, argues: “If the game companies would grant every actor the same consent, remuneration and transparency as James Earl Jones, we would not be in strike. It shows that you can do it – you just don’t want to do it for people that you don’t believe in the negotiation power.”

Darth Vader is one of the most iconic characters in film history, and James Earl Jones’ depth, distinctive voice shaped the character since the first Star Wars film from 1977. Jones, who died in September 2023 at the age of 92, had already agreed to use his voice for future Star Wars projects during the lifetime.