Fortnite’s Generative AI Vader Hotfixed for Swearing

Implemented on an update that released May 16, Fortnite’s Darth Vader can now talk with the players thanks to the use of generative AI. Upon recruiting Darth Vader, players can use their mic to discuss any topic of their liking. 

The AI in-game uses the voice of the late James Earl Jones – the in-game AI was caught swearing by numerous sources. In streamer vods, he is shown throwing out the F bomb. 

“What freaking f**king food is that Darth Vader,” Streamer LoserFruit asks the AI model, questioning the character’s favorite meal. “Freaking f**king… Such vulgarity does not become you, Padme. You inquire about sustenance, yet speak like a common thug,” AI Vader wittily responds. 

Upon being notified of the use of profanity, Epic Games quickly hotfixed the foul mouthed Vader; he received an update thirty minutes into the patch update. 

The use of James Earl Joine’s voice has been approved by his family. 

“James Earl felt that the voice of Darth Vader was inseparable from the story of Star Wars, and he always wanted fans of all ages to continue to experience it. We hope that this collaboration with Fortnite will allow both longtime fans of Darth Vader and newer generations to share in the enjoyment of this iconic character,” James Earl Jones’ family shared in Epic’s official statement.

Fortnite’s Darth Vader uses Google’s Gemini 2.0 Flash model and and ElevenLabs’ Flash v2.5 audio model. Fortnite Mobile was supposed to have released earlier this week for iOS devices, but Apple is hindering the processes.

The Star Wars collaboration has two more major updates coming, with the next being “Mandalorian Rising.” The update arrives on May 22, and “Star Destroyer Bombardment” arrives on May 29. This all leads up to the ultimate “Death Star Sabotage” on June 7.