AI-Facilitated Exploitation of Voice Actors in the Gaming Industry, Through the Lens of US and Indian Laws

The rapid development of artificial intelligence and voice-cloning technologies has transformed the gaming and entertainment industries while creating significant risks of exploitation for voice actors. This article critically examines the adequacy of existing legal frameworks in the United States and India in protecting voice actors against the unauthorised appropriation, replication and commercial exploitation of their voices through AI. It analyses the right of publicity, privacy, copyright and tort remedies, with particular reference to judicial developments including Midler v. Ford Motor Co., Waits v. Frito-Lay, Inc., ICC Development (International) Ltd. v. Arvee Enterprises, Arjit Singh v. Codible Ventures LLP and Paul Lehrman v. Lovo Inc. The article identifies significant gaps arising from the absence of comprehensive statutory protection, inconsistent recognition of publicity rights, and copyright’s limited protection of voice as distinct from recorded expression. It argues for an integrated regulatory framework founded on informed consent, transparency, fair compensation, data licensing and royalty mechanisms, drawing upon emerging industry practices such as SAG-AFTRA’s AI safeguards.