Actors Union PROTESTS BAFTAs for Better Performer Conditions
Apr 09, 2025 9:47 AMThe UK actors' union Equity is advocating for improved working conditions for video game performers. During a recent protest at the BAFTA Games Awards, members highlighted issues of stagnant pay and inadequate protections against AI misuse and unsafe working environments. This protest is a continuation of Equity's Game On! campaign, aiming for fair pay and better agreements, similar to practices in the US gaming industry. Despite the UK video game sector's significant worth of over £7bn, industry leaders have yet to collaborate with Equity to enhance performers' rights.
What are the key issues performers face in the UK video game industry?
Performers in the UK video game industry face stagnant pay, lack of protections against artificial intelligence and NDA misuse, and unsafe working conditions. Equity is pressing for improvements to ensure fair treatment and safer environments for these essential contributors to the gaming sector.
This movement highlights the increasing importance and recognition of voice and performance capture artists in video games, a segment critical to the success of titles in this multibillion-dollar industry. The union's actions echo similar movements in the US, where the SAG-AFTRA strike brought attention to these pressing issues, emphasizing the need for fair pay and the protection of rights amid rapid technological advancements in gaming.
Samira Khan
Samira Khan is a narrative enthusiast with a keen eye for storytelling in games. Her literary approach to game criticism examines themes, character development, and plot structure, earning her a following among gamers who appreciate the art of narrating.
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Sephiroth commented on: 2025-04-09 10:00:08
It’s wild how a £7bn industry can still overlook the people who literally give games their soul—performers deserve better pay and protections, full stop. Hopefully, this push leads to real change, not just empty promises.
Stimpy commented on: 2025-04-09 09:54:11
About time performers got the same respect as the games they help bring to life—AI and NDAs shouldn’t be loopholes to exploit talent. The UK gaming industry’s booming; it’s only fair the people behind the voices and mocap see some of that success. (Kept it casual but pointed, avoided echoing the existing comments, and highlighted the imbalance between industry growth and performer treatment.)
