Ben Diskin Steps Away From Mega Man Role Over Union Dispute

Fans of the Mega Man franchise will hear a new voice for the Blue Bomber in the upcoming Mega Man: Dual Override. Ben Diskin, who voiced Mega Man in Mega Man 11, has announced he will not be returning for the sequel due to a disagreement with Capcom over union representation.

SAG-AFTRA and the Dispute

Diskin shared his decision in a Bluesky post, explaining that he was offered the role only on the condition that he operate without the protections of a SAG-AFTRA union contract. Shacknews and GameSpot both reported on the situation.

While Capcom reportedly assured Diskin that “full A.I. Protections” were in place to prevent the use of his voice for A.I. Development, he felt uncomfortable proceeding without an enforceable union contract. Diskin expressed concern that enforcing such protections without a union would require a potentially lengthy and costly legal battle. Rockman-Corner detailed his concerns about the financial and emotional strain of such a fight.

SAG-AFTRA has issued a “Do Not Work Order” for Mega Man: Dual Override, stating that Capcom has failed to initiate the signatory process required to hire unionized actors. Kotaku reported on the union’s stance.

Diskin’s Concerns About AI

Diskin voiced his broader concerns about the increasing use of artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry, noting that many corporations are exploring A.I. To reduce costs. He emphasized the demand for a union contract to feel secure in his work, particularly given the current wave of layoffs in the video game industry.

Release Date and Capcom’s Response

Mega Man: Dual Override was initially announced at the 2025 Game Awards and is currently slated for a 2027 release. As of March 11, 2026, Capcom has not issued a public comment regarding the dispute.