SAG-AFTRA has reached a provisional agreement with major gaming studios on updates to the Interactive Media Contract, signaling a possible resolution to the prolonged voice-over artists’ labor dispute.

Talent covered under the Interactive Media Agreement initiated industrial action in mid-2024, with artificial intelligence regulations forming the central conflict. Performers demanded safeguards against unauthorized synthetic replication of their vocal performances for indefinite use, including requirements for ongoing consent and compensation beyond initial contracts.

The preliminary pact includes what SAG-AFTRA’s lead negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland describes as “critical protections against synthetic voice exploitation in the digital era, alongside substantial improvements across multiple contract areas.”

Union president Fran Drescher stated, “Through collective resolve, our members secured vital advancements against industry giants dominating this billion-dollar sector. This agreement gains approval, it marks new momentum for future negotiations focused on continuous worker protections.”

Work stoppages will persist pending final approval from union members. Ratification procedures are anticipated to conclude shortly, after which strike activities will suspend.