SAG-AFTRA strike rules for working actors don’t apply to video games

SAG-AFTRA, the union of Screen Actors Guild and American Federation of Television and Radio Artists is currently on strike. They have shut down many TV and film productions. Members of the union can’t act in television, theatrical, or streaming productions under strike rules, nor can they promote projects they’ve already filmed. They can, however, work on video games and other productions.

According to an FAQ for SAG-AFTRA members, “commercial or videogame work is not covered by the strike.”

SAGAFTRA says that motion and performance capture are included in this. SAG-AFTRA contracts include video game actors, along with media including commercials and talk shows. They also cover music videos, audiobooks, game shows, radio shows, and game shows. Elle Fanning, Norman Reedus or other actors may record face and performance recording for video games. Death Stranding 2, According to SAGAFTRA, scabbing during a strike does not count.

Video games are a great way for actors to promote themselves. While this weekend’s San Diego Comic-Con will be a much weaker showing than convention-goers are used to, with major film and TV studios backing out as the actors strike, panels for video games don’t conflict with SAG-AFTRA’s rules about promoting projects. On Thursday, actors Yuri Lowenthal, Nadji Jeter, Laura Bailey, and Tony Todd will be at Insomniac Games’ panel to discuss their upcoming PlayStation 5 game, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2. A panel on Peacock’s new streaming series based on Twisted Metal, however, will be absent the show’s stars, which include Anthony Mackie, Will Arnett, and Stephanie Beatriz.

SAG-AFTRA offers a PDF of the projects that are covered by separate contracts.