Geralt Actor Slams 'Stupid' Witcher 4 'Woke' Claims

Doug Cockle, the iconic voice behind Geralt of Rivia, has responded to backlash over The Witcher 4 centering on Ciri, urging franchise critics to "read the original books" for context.

"The criticism makes no sense," Cockle remarked about fan reactions to CD Projekt's decision to feature Ciri as the protagonist rather than Geralt in the upcoming RPG.

"This isn't about being 'woke,'" Cockle clarified in a Fall Damage interview. "Ciri is an incredible character from The Witcher universe. Focusing on her storyline is an exciting creative choice."

While Cockle will reprise his role as Geralt in The Witcher 4, the veteran monster hunter won't be the game's central character this time.

Despite Geralt appearing in some capacity, last year's confirmation of Ciri taking the lead (potentially throughout the new trilogy) sparked misguided "woke culture" complaints from a vocal online minority.

"We can't keep rehashing Geralt's story indefinitely," Cockle explained. "His narrative reached its natural conclusion with Blood and Wine. Ciri deserves this spotlight - it's refreshing for the franchise."

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Cockle emphasized that Ciri's central role in The Witcher 4 directly connects to Andrzej Sapkowski's original book series.

"Book readers understand CD Projekt's direction perfectly," Cockle noted. "Ciri's untapped potential from the Witcher 3 era finally gets proper exploration since Geralt's story dominated that installment."

"Read the novels - they're excellent. The 'woke' argument falls apart when you understand the source material."

While CD Projekt's games occur after Sapkowski's novels conclude, the author maintained separation between his definitive ending and the games' continuation.

Without spoiling book details that may influence The Witcher 4, it's clear both Sapkowski and CD Projekt view Ciri as a crucial character well-suited to carry the narrative when Geralt steps back.

IGN previously discussed Geralt's return with CD Projekt lore experts Cian Maher and Marcin Batylda, who confirmed the game's timeline remains consistent with established canon.