In the latest update of Zenless Zone Zero, the English voice actors of Soldier 11 and Von Lycaon were replaced after refusing to record lines during the SAG-AFTRA strike over AI protections for performers.
Zenless Zone Zero Actors Replaced Surprisingly
Yesterday Zenless Zone Zero had its 1.6 patch and with it came unexpected news for the English voice actors of Soldier 11 and Von Lycaon. Emeri Chase and Nicholas Thurkettle, who voiced the two characters respectively, revealed that they had been replaced. The reason for this sudden change in employment, according to the actors, is their refusal to record lines during the SAG strike over AI protections for performers.
Launched in July 2024, the SAG-AFTRA videogame strike aims to secure protections for performers regarding the use of artificial intelligence, particularly addressing concerns that AI models could be used to replicate an actor’s voice or create a digital likeness without proper consent or compensation. Both voice actors who were replaced in the latest update of the action game have expressed these concerns in their statements.
Zenless Zone Zero voice actors aren’t the only ones affected by the increasing use of AI in the industry. Recently Apex Legends voice actors also protested the use of AI, as according to a new clause in their contracts, the game’s developer could use the actors’ voices to make AI substitutions.
What Did the Actors Say?
On social media, Chase (Soldier 11’s voice actor) said she was replaced due to her refusing to perform work not covered by a SAG Interim Agreement during the strike. “Many actors are choosing to voluntarily withhold work on these categories of projects because we feel it is the best way to support the union’s fight,” Chase continued. “I knew that by withholding work it was possible I’d be replaced, though of course, I hoped they would choose to leave her silent until I was able to return. I found out the role was recast today alongside all of you.”
Chase concluded by saying she loved to work on Zenless Zone Zero and would have been thrilled to return to the project after the trike had ended. However, she also said she stands by her choices regardless of the outcome. Finally, she wished all the best to the cast and the production team and thanked the game’s fans.
Thurkettle expressed his surprise at the news, stating, “Proxies, I’m learning about this just as you are, and I share your shock.” He continued, noting that neither HoYoverse nor Sound Cadence, the studio responsible for recording English-language voices for ZZZ, had communicated with him since October. He emphasized that he had remained fully available and had recorded multiple voice jobs during that period. Thurkettle added that he was trying to learn more and process the news.
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