Red Hook Studios refuses to use AI to recreate the voice of the late star from Darkest Dungeon, even with consent.

Darkest Dungeon and Darkest Dungeon II: How Red Hook Studios Responded to the Death of Wayne June

In the role‑playing roguelikes *Darkest Dungeon* and *Darkest Dungeon II*, the narrator’s voice, performed by Wayne June (Wayne June), became one of the most memorable elements. Unfortunately, in January 2025 the artist passed away. The developers at Canadian studio Red Hook Studios stated that they do not intend to replace him with artificial intelligence.

Who Talks About Voice Technology

Co‑founder and creative director of Red Hook Studios Chris Bourassa clarified the company’s position in Reddit comments on a related topic. He specified that the studio does not plan to use generative AI models to create June’s voice for future games in the series.

What Bourassa Said Himself

Bourassa noted that Wayne June was categorically opposed to having his voice used to train neural networks. Nevertheless, a few days before his death he gave Red Hook permission for such a project: “We never asked him. I think he tried to put the interests of the game/team/fans above his own and show a path forward.”

He added: “I refused. I would never, under any circumstances, devalue his incredible and timeless acting by letting a machine imitate him. His voice and manner of speaking were human. I will forever be grateful for having had the opportunity to write for him.”