The return of Mega Man in Dual Override was huge news, but it comes with a significant behind-the-scenes change. Ben Diskin, the voice actor known for portraying the Blue Bomber, has confirmed he will not be reprising his role.

In a candid statement on social media, Diskin revealed that while Capcom wanted him back, the offer came with a major condition: he would have to work without the protections of a union contract. For Diskin, this was a deal-breaker, particularly given the rapidly evolving and unregulated landscape of AI in the entertainment industry.

He explained that even with some verbal assurances, the risk of his voice and performance being used in ways he couldn’t control or be compensated for was too great without a formal union agreement. His decision highlights a growing tension in the gaming world between developers and talent over AI, fair use, and performer rights. Capcom was ultimately unwilling to meet his requirement for a union contract, leading to this recasting for one of gaming’s most iconic characters.