Activision has made changes to the voice cast for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 due to the SAG-AFTRA strike. The company is the main labor union for Hollywood performers. The voice changes in the popular Zombies mode caught the attention of fans, who noticed differences in the performances of characters like William Peck and Samantha Maxis. Voice actor Zeke Alton, who provided Peck's voice in previous games, confirmed the change and mentioned that his name was removed from the game's credits.
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The situation exposed the delicate relationship between video game production and strikes in the entertainment industry. Although films and series frequently suffer shutdowns, a clause known as Side Letter Six allows games in development before July 2024 to continue with cast replacements if the original voice actors choose to join the strike.
Debate on rights and artificial intelligence
Zeke Alton clarified that he doesn't directly oppose Activision's changes, but expressed concern for his professional reputation. "Without proper credit, fans might think the performance is still mine, which harms the perception of my abilities ," he stated. He also highlighted the importance of protecting voice actors from the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI), an issue that has gained relevance in the industry.
This fear reflects a growing problem: the use of AI to replicate voices without the artists' consent. Thus, the practice, while technologically and economically advantageous for studios, raises ethical discussions about performers' rights and the preservation of creative authenticity.
Activision, in a statement, declared its respect for the individual choices of the professionals involved and reinforced its hope for a positive resolution to the strike. Meanwhile, SAG-AFTRA announced a new agreement regulating game localization, expanding employment opportunities and offering safeguards against the use of AI.
