Voice Actors Replaced: Discovered via Patch Notes

Two Zenless Zone Zero voice actors, Emeri Chase and Nicholas Thurkettle, have publicly stated they were replaced after discovering the game's patch notes had been released. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding generative AI protections in the video game industry, a key issue in the dispute between the Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and game developers.

Zenless Zone Zero (ZZZ), developed by HoYoverse, the company behind Genshin Impact, is not directly affected by the SAG-AFTRA strike as it was in development before the strike's commencement on July 25, 2024. However, voice actors are taking a stand by refusing to sign new contracts that lack SAG Interim Agreements, in solidarity with the striking union members fighting for AI protections.

Emeri Chase, who voiced Soldier 11, explained their decision to withhold work, stating, "I am unwilling to perform work not covered by a SAG Interim Agreement during a strike for AI protection, the outcome of which will determine the future of our industry." Chase learned of their replacement through the same public channels as fans, expressing disappointment that HoYoverse did not opt to keep the character silent until they could return.

Nicholas Thurkettle, the voice of Lycaon, also found himself replaced, despite not being a union member. He shared his shock and frustration on Bluesky, noting the lack of communication from HoYoverse and Sound Cadence since October. Thurkettle emphasized the existential threat posed by AI in the industry, stating, "I took a personal stand to ask for protection, and had to be willing to give up the best thing that's ever happened in my professional life. I stand by my choice."

In a related incident, Activision confirmed the recasting of some characters in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 amid the SAG-AFTRA strike. Characters like William Peck and Samantha Maxis in the Zombies mode are now voiced by new actors. Zeke Alton, the original voice of William Peck, expressed concerns about the impact on his professional reputation due to the lack of clear crediting for the new actor.

These developments underscore the broader impact of the SAG-AFTRA strike on the gaming industry, as detailed in our feature, What the SAG-AFTRA Video Game Actors Strike Means for Gamers. The ongoing struggle for AI protections continues to shape the future of voice acting in video games.