Witcher actor dismisses Ciri 'woke' claims

Doug Cockle, the iconic voice behind Geralt of Rivia, has responded to criticism about The Witcher 4 centering on Ciri - bluntly telling detractors to "read the source material."

"This Isn't Woke - It's Canon"

"These complaints are ridiculous," Cockle stated regarding backlash over CD Projekt Red's decision to feature Ciri as protagonist in the upcoming RPG installment. The veteran voice actor made his remarks during a Fall Damage interview.

"There's nothing 'woke' about this creative choice," Cockle continued. "Ciri is an established, compelling character from the Witcher universe. Exploring her story potential is exciting, not agenda-driven."

Cockle will reprise his role as Geralt in The Witcher 4, though in a supporting capacity. When CD Projekt Red confirmed last year that Ciri would helm the new trilogy, some online commentators falsely framed the decision as pandering.

Why Geralt Needs to Step Back

"We can't just recycle Geralt's story indefinitely," Cockle explained. "Blood and Wine provided perfect closure to his arc. I actively welcome Ciri taking the lead - she's earned this spotlight."

The actor then delivered a blunt response to critics: *blows raspberry*

The Narrative Foundation

Cockle stressed that book readers would understand Ciri's central role: "The novels clearly establish why CDPR chose this direction. Ciri's untapped potential is enormous - Witcher 3 only hinted at her full capabilities."

"If you genuinely think this is 'woke', do yourself a favor: read Sapkowski's books. First, they're excellent. Second, you'll realize this decision makes perfect canonical sense."

While CD Projekt's games occur post-novels, Sapkowski's original saga positions Ciri as a pivotal character completely capable of carrying the narrative when Geralt isn't center stage.

IGN previously consulted with CDPR's lore experts Cian Maher and Marcin Batylda, who confirmed Geralt's supporting role aligns perfectly with established Witcher chronology.