Technology can go both ways: it could be positive and progressive when used correctly but it can also be destructive when utilized in a way that goes beyond what it should be used for. Recently, one of the hottest topics is the use of artificial intelligence or simply "AI" in the entertainment industry that it is one of the many ideas many are against in the SAG-AFTRA strike. The voice actor of Michael de Santa in GTA 5, Ned Luke, speaks up about the issue on an AI program copying his voice, and he is definitely not happy about it.
The use of AI is one of the major topics of the SAG-AFTRA strike and recently, the deal between the association and Replica Studios is that AI approximations of big Hollywood stars in games could potentially be allowed and this resulted to an intensified backlash against the use of AI when it comes to the gaming industry. Various actors go against the use of AI in Hollywood as the controversy continues regarding AI being the replacement of human artists. On X, GTA V voice actor of Michael, Ned Luke, called out an AI company that goes by the name of WAME who copied his voice through AI without his consent. See the post of Ned Luke below:
In a now deleted post, WAME unveiled a chatbot using the voice of Ned Luke as Michael. Worse, it referred to him being the protagonist of GTA 4 when Michael is in GTA V. WAME responded by deleting the post and they sent a statement through PCGamesN saying:
In light of the recent controversy surrounding the utilization of Mr Ned Luke’s voice in our application, we at WAME wish to express our profound understanding and concern. This incident has highlighted the intricate interplay between the advancement of AI technology and the ethical and legal realms. WAME commits to protecting the rights of voice actors and creators while advancing ethical AI practices. We believe this controversy serves as a pivotal moment in harmonizing AI technology with relevant legal statutes.
The rising concern of actors like Ned Luke showcase the threat of AI to the entertainment industry as this technology could potentially rob the actors of opportunities in official projects.
Is is possible for Michael to return in GTA 6?
To date, there are not much details on GTA 6 besides those confirmed by Rockstar Games through their statements and the GTA 6 reveal trailer, and the press release by Take-Two Interactive. As regards the main characters of GTA 6, it will be focusing on Jason and Lucia as they go through Leonida, the fictionalized state of Florida. As regards returning cast members from previous GTA releases like Ned Luke who voices Michael de Santa, the reprisal of the roles all depend on whether their narrative could fit into the new upcoming game.
In GTA V the fate of Michael de Santa was sealed when Franklin punched him off of the railing where he ended up falling over to his death. Despite that, Ned Luke himself already teased the possibility of Michael's return in GTA 6 as he replied to the fan that asked on X, "It's a mystery" with five star emojis. To date, the return of Michael has never been officially confirmed.
GTA 6 is scheduled for a launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S in 2025.
