Mega Man Voice Actor Exits Sequel Over Non-Union Work Request from Capcom

SAG-AFTRA has issued a “Do Not Work Order” for the upcoming Mega Man game, Mega Man: Dual Override, due to Capcom’s failure to start the necessary signatory process to hire union actors. Consequently, Ben Diskin, who voiced Mega Man in Mega Man 11, has announced that he will not be returning for this installment. Diskin speculated that Capcom might be trying to sidestep the AI protections that a union contract would enforce.

The DNWO was issued on March 9, prohibiting all union members from participating in the game. Engaging in work on this project could breach “Global Rule One,” leading to penalties ranging from fines to expulsion from the union. The notice states, “Please be advised that the producer of the video game production entitled Mega Man: Dual Override has failed to initiate the signatory process. As such, SAG-AFTRA members are hereby instructed to withhold any acting services or performance of any covered work for this production until further notice from the union.”

In a post on Bluesky, Diskin shared that he had to decline Capcom’s offer to reprise his role in Mega Man: Dual Override, as it was contingent on him working without the protections provided by SAG-AFTRA. “With a broken Blue Bomber heart, I am no longer the voice of Mega Man,” he stated. “I was asked to return for Mega Man: Dual Override, but only on the condition I work without the protections of a union contract.”

While there has been no official comment from Capcom regarding this situation, Diskin speculated that it might relate to SAG-AFTRA’s AI protection measures. He mentioned being assured that there are “full A.I. protections in place that guarantee in writing that [his] voice will never be used for A.I. development,” but also noted that he was told “with certainty, from [Capcom], that the project will not go union.” Diskin expressed a desire to trust Capcom but acknowledged the trend among major corporations to explore generative AI for cost savings.

An outlet has reached out to Capcom for a response but has not yet received any information.