A few days ago I reported that actors union SAG-AFTRA has threatened a strike against some major video game companies on behalf of its members – some of the most talented voice actors in the industry. SAG-AFTRA was determined to conclude negotiations having come to agreements to provide safer, less-strenuous working conditions for its members. The union is also demanding that certain terms for residual payment for games that end up selling millions be established. Apparently the negotiations did not end favorably.
Ray Rodriuez, SAG-AFTRA’s chief contracts officer, had the following to say in a statement (via Polygon ): “It’s time for video game employers to take our concerns seriously and negotiate a modern contract based on actor safety, industry precedent and best practices.” The organization went on to say that “This group of video game employers knowingly feeds off other industries that pay these same performers fairly to make a living. This represents a ‘freeloader model of compensation’ that we believe cannot and should not continue.”
SAG-AFTRA members are reportedly picketing in front of EA’s California offices starting on October 24. It will be interesting to see how the strike plays out in the long run, and whether or not it affects change.