French Voice Cast of Apex Legends Takes a Stand Against AI

In a recent turn of events, the voice actors behind the French version of Apex Legends have taken a stand against a proposed agreement related to AI training, choosing not to sign it. This development comes from Pascale Chemin, the voice behind Wraith in the French adaptation of the game. She revealed on Twitter that a major publisher, likely Electronic Arts, had inserted a clause into their contracts. This clause would permit the use of their recorded voices to enhance AI models. While the specific game and publisher weren’t explicitly named, all signs indicate it’s Apex Legends and EA.

In solidarity, 31 other voice actors involved with the project have also declined to sign the agreement. They collectively penned a letter, rejecting the proposed terms. “Now is the time for us to unite and demand a clause that safeguards our voices be put in our contracts. This isn’t just for us but for all video game dubbing studios,” Chemin expressed, according to a translation by ResetEra.

She continued by addressing the harsh realities many face, “Refusing work today seems irrational given the scarcity of opportunities, and the financial struggles many of us endure. A paycheck would indeed be welcome. However, it’s not just about working; it’s about relinquishing our skills to train an AI that’s poised to replace us. We’re being asked to compromise our future, to enable what we actively oppose. It’s like agreeing to our own obsolescence. This push for AI support is something we cannot endorse.”