In a decisive move, SAG-AFTRA members have ratified the 2025 Interactive Media Agreement with an overwhelming 95.04% approval, concluding the video game strike. The new contract offers significant compensation increases for performers and introduces enhanced safety measures concerning artificial intelligence (A.I.) usage.
The agreement stipulates a 15.17% immediate increase in performer compensation, with additional increments of 3% scheduled for November 2025, November 2026, and November 2027. It also modifies the overtime rate for overscale performers to be based on double scale. Health and retirement contributions to the AFTRA Retirement Fund will rise from 16.5% to 17%, further increasing to 17.5% by October 2026.
Key provisions include safeguards related to A.I., mandating consent and disclosure for digital replica use and allowing performers to withdraw consent during strikes.
SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher acknowledged the leadership of Sarah Elmaleh, Chair of the Interactive Media Agreement Negotiating Committee, saying, “I commend the strong leadership of Interactive Media Agreement Negotiating Chair Sarah Elmaleh… This deal achieves important progress around A.I. protections…”
National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland expressed gratitude towards those involved in negotiations: “All of us at SAG-AFTRA would like to extend our deepest appreciation to the video game performers and allies who endured a great deal of sacrifice throughout the 11-month strike.”
Representing video game producers party to the agreement, Audrey Cooling stated satisfaction with its ratification: “We are pleased that SAG-AFTRA members have ratified a new Interactive Media Agreement…”
Votes were cast online or via mail-in ballot by July 9, certified by Integrity Voting Systems in Everett, Washington.
SAG-AFTRA is an organization representing around 160,000 professionals in various entertainment fields across America.
