Zenless Zone Zero Voice Actor Replacements Announced

Two Zenless Zone Zero voice actors, Emeri Chase (Soldier 11) and Nicholas Thurkettle (Lycaon), claim they learned of their replacements via the game's patch notes, highlighting the ongoing impact of the SAG-AFTRA strike on 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' decisions reflect solidarity with striking union members and a desire for AI protection.

Chase, unwilling to work without a SAG Interim Agreement guaranteeing AI protections, stated they were replaced because of this stance. Thurkettle, though not a union member, was similarly replaced and expressed his support for the fight against the perceived existential threat of AI in voice acting. Both actors expressed surprise at their replacement and a lack of communication from HoYoverse and Sound Cadence. Chase had hoped for a delay until their return, while Thurkettle noted his consistent availability for work.

HoYoVerse has been contacted for comment. This situation mirrors a December incident where Activision recast characters in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, replacing Zeke Alton (William Peck) and Julie Nathanson (Samantha Maxis) in the Zombies mode. Alton, while not contesting Activision's actions, expressed concern about the lack of credit given to the replacement actor, potentially misrepresenting his abilities.

For further insights into the SAG-AFTRA strike's impact on gaming, see our previous feature, What the SAG-AFTRA Video Game Actors Strike Means for Gamers.