But, fans will be pleased when they hear a familiar voice

A new Witcher film, Sirens of the Deep, features a mix of returning stars from the Netflix series and some notable absences. However, fans are not entirely disheartened by the temporary replacement for one key role.

The upcoming film will see the character of Geralt return in an animated adventure on the streaming platform. Unlike other spin-off projects by the company, this is an adaptation of one of the short stories written by original Polish author Andrezj Sapkowski.

In the 90-minute feature, Geralt of Rivia, a mutated monster hunter, is hired to investigate a series of attacks in a seaside village and finds himself embroiled in a centuries-old conflict between humans and merpeople. He must rely on friends, both old and new, to solve the mystery before the hostilities between the two kingdoms escalate into full-blown war.

The cast includes some familiar voices, including stars of the live-action Netflix Witcher series. However, neither of the big-name stars from that show is reprising the lead role, reports the Mirror US. Here’s who is in the cast list for The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep.

Doug Cockle returns as Geralt for the new film (Image: Netflix)

Doug Cockle voicing Geralt of Rivia

Neither Henry Cavill nor Liam Hemsworth will be reprising their role as Geralt in this latest Netflix film. Cavill, much to the delight of fans, portrayed the character for the first three series of the live-action adaptation.

However, in October 2022, it was announced that he would be replaced by Liam Hemsworth for the yet-to-be-released fourth instalment, which isn’t expected until later this year. With Netflix seemingly between actors during the production of Sirens of the Deep, they turned to Doug Cockle, who has been voicing Geralt since 2005 in the English language version of the video game adaptations.

He has provided the instantly recognisable voice for the character in three games developed by CD Projekt Red and is expected to return for the fourth. Additionally, he voiced the character in cameo appearances for Soul Caliber VI and Monster Hunter World.

His other video game credits include Alan Wake II and Baldur’s Gate 3. Cockle revealed that he doesn’t know all the details behind the scenes involving Cavill and Hemsworth but was thrilled to step into the role again for Netflix. He said: “I was thrilled when I was asked, I don’t know the ins and outs of why or anything like that. I just know that I was asked and I was really pleased to be asked So, it was a very quick yes.”

Joey Batey will be playing Jaskier

One actor reprising his role from the live-action adaptation is Joey Batey, who returns as Jaskier. Known to fans of the games and books as Dandelion, this character is one of Geralt’s closest companions and a renowned bard.

In the latest adventure, Jaskier accompanies his Witcher friend in an attempt to earn enough for a decent meal, while also seeking inspiration for his next masterpiece. Batey, a British actor hailing from Newcastle, has also featured in the History Channel series Knightfall and episodes of Whitechapel.

Anya Chalotra as Yennefer

Anya Chalotra will also be returning to voice Yennefer of Vengerberg, a powerful mage. Although her character plays a minor role in the story of Sirens of the Deep, it is a crucial one that influences Geralt’s motivations.

Originally from Wolverhampton, Chalotra voices Circe in the animated DC series Creature Commandos and has made an appearance in an episode of Doctor Who. She is expected to return alongside Batey for the fourth series of The Witcher with Hemsworth.

Fans felt Henry Cavill based his performance on Doug Cockle’s voice (Image: Netflix)

Christina Wren as Essi

Christina Wren is the only new cast member featuring in Sirens of the Deep. Not much has been revealed about her character in the film, but fans familiar with the original story will know exactly what part she has to play. The character of Jaskier’s childhood friend Essi, also known as Little Eye, is played by Wren. However, revealing more details could potentially spoil the plot.

Wren has previously had a minor role in the film Man of Steel, where she acted alongside Cavill’s Superman, and has also appeared in an episode of the Amazon Prime series Cross, as well as featuring in the crime show Will Trent.

The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep is streaming on Netflix