Zenless Zone Zero Voice Actors Say They Found Out They Were Replaced When the Patch Notes Went Live

Two Zenless Zone Zero voice actors, Emeri Chase (Soldier 11) and Nicholas Thurkettle (Lycaon), claim they learned of their replacement via the game's patch notes, highlighting the ongoing impact of the SAG-AFTRA strike and the debate surrounding generative AI in the video game industry. While Zenless Zone Zero, developed by HoYoverse, isn't directly subject to the strike due to its pre-July 25th, 2024 development start date, the actors chose not to sign new contracts, citing solidarity with striking union members and the lack of SAG Interim Agreements offering AI protections.

Chase, unwilling to work without a SAG Interim Agreement, publicly stated their replacement was a direct consequence of this decision. Thurkettle, a non-union member, expressed similar sentiments, emphasizing the existential threat posed by AI practices in the industry and his willingness to forgo the role to advocate for actor protections. Both actors noted a lack of communication from HoYoverse and Sound Cadence.

This situation echoes a similar incident involving Activision and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, where the recasting of Zombies characters William Peck and Samantha Maxis was confirmed by Activision. While Zeke Alton (Peck) expressed no direct issue with the recasting, he voiced concern about the lack of crediting for the replacement actor potentially misrepresenting his abilities.

HoYoverse has been contacted for comment. For further information on the SAG-AFTRA strike's broader impact on the gaming industry, please see our previous feature, What the SAG-AFTRA Video Game Actors Strike Means for Gamers.