Ben Diskin Withdraws from Mega Man: Dual Override Over Union Contract Dispute

Ben Diskin, the voice actor known for his role as Mega Man in the 2018 game Mega Man 11, has announced he will not reprise his role in the upcoming title Mega Man: Dual Override, scheduled for release in 2027. Diskin's decision stems from Capcom's refusal to provide a union contract, which he deems essential for job security amid growing concerns over the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the gaming industry.

Mega Man 11 actor won't return for the next game in the series because Capcom refuses to work under a union contractMega Man 11 Voice Actor Requires Union Contract for Dual Override ReturnMega Man voice actor announces he won't be back for Dual Override due to lack of "protections of a union contract""I Need A Union Contract To Feel Safe" - Mega Man 11 Voice Actor Not Returning For Dual OverrideBen Diskin Exits Mega Man Role Over Capcom’s Union Contract StandOFFIGN EntertainmentMega Man Voice Actor Won't Return For Sequel Because Capcom Won't Go UnionBen Diskin Won’t Voice Mega Man in Dual Override Over Capcom’s Refusal to Offer Union Contract

In a post on Bluesky, Diskin expressed his disappointment, stating, “With a broken Blue Bomber heart, I am no longer the voice of Mega Man.” He explained that while Capcom assured him of "full AI protections" regarding the use of his voice, the absence of a formal union contract left him feeling vulnerable. Diskin emphasized, “I need a union contract to feel safe,” highlighting the precarious state of the industry, which has seen significant layoffs and uncertainty.

Mega Man 11 Voice Actor Requires Union Contract for Dual Override Return

Despite offering to work under a lower-budget union contract, Diskin reported that Capcom was firm in its stance that the project would not go union. This refusal has led to a broader conflict, as the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) issued a "Do Not Work" order against Mega Man: Dual Override, prohibiting its members from participating in the project until Capcom initiates the necessary signatory process.

Mega Man Voice Actor Won't Return For Sequel Because Capcom Won't Go Union

The SAG-AFTRA strike, which lasted nearly a year from July 2024 to June 2025, was primarily focused on securing protections against AI misuse in the gaming industry. The new contract ratified post-strike includes provisions for informed consent regarding AI use, but these protections only apply to union-sanctioned projects. As Mega Man: Dual Override is classified as a non-union title, it falls outside these safeguards.

Mega Man Voice Actor Won't Return For Sequel Because Capcom Won't Go Union

Diskin's announcement has garnered support from fans and fellow voice actors, including Yuri Lowenthal, who praised Diskin's integrity. The ongoing dispute raises concerns about the future of voice acting in video games, particularly as generative AI becomes more prevalent. Diskin's situation underscores the tension between talent and publishers regarding the implementation of AI technologies and the need for union protections.

Mega Man 11 Voice Actor Requires Union Contract for Dual Override Return

As Capcom prepares for the release of Mega Man: Dual Override, the company faces the challenge of finding a new voice actor for Mega Man. The game's release is anticipated in 2027 across multiple platforms, including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch. However, without a resolution to the union dispute, the project may struggle to attract top-tier voice talent, potentially impacting its overall quality and reception.

Mega Man voice actor announces he won't be back for Dual Override due to lack of "protections of a union contract"

• “With a broken Blue Bomber heart, I am no longer the voice of Mega Man.” — Ben Diskin, Voice Actor

"I Need A Union Contract To Feel Safe" - Mega Man 11 Voice Actor Not Returning For Dual Override

• “I need a union contract to feel safe.” — Ben Diskin, Voice Actor

"I Need A Union Contract To Feel Safe" - Mega Man 11 Voice Actor Not Returning For Dual Override

• “Please be advised that the producer of the video game production entitled Mega Man: Dual Override has failed to initiate the signatory process,” — SAG-AFTRA Statement

IGN Entertainment

While Capcom has assured Diskin of AI protections, the lack of a union contract raises questions about the enforceability of these assurances. Additionally, the SAG-AFTRA "Do Not Work" order complicates the hiring process for the game, leaving uncertainty about the future voice cast.

Mega Man Voice Actor Won't Return For Sequel Because Capcom Won't Go Union