When Netflix’s The Witcher was first announced, fans immediately began dream-casting their favorite characters. While Henry Cavill was a near-perfect Geralt, one casting choice that still haunts the fandom is the missed opportunity of Jessica Chastain as Triss Merigold.

With her fiery red hair, undeniable acting talent, and commanding on-screen presence, Chastain could have delivered a definitive version of the beloved sorceress. So why did Hollywood completely overlook her for the role? Let’s dive in!

Triss Merigold: More Than Just a Side Character

For those unfamiliar, Triss isn’t just another sorceress in The Witcher universe. She’s:

One of Geralt’s most important love interests.
A powerful mage with a complex personality.
A key player in the Lodge of Sorceresses and political conflicts.

Yet, in Netflix’s The Witcher, Triss was massively sidelined, with minimal screen time and barely any character depth. This left fans disappointed—and wondering what could have been if an A-lister like Chastain had taken the role.

Why Jessica Chastain Was the Perfect Triss

If Netflix had truly wanted a show-stopping Triss, Jessica Chastain was the obvious choice. Here’s why:

She Has the Perfect Look

Let’s be real—Chastain naturally looks like Triss. The character is known for her striking red hair, piercing green eyes, and regal beauty. Chastain wouldn’t have needed a drastic transformation—she already embodies the character’s physical traits effortlessly.

She’s an Oscar-Winning Powerhouse

Triss isn’t just eye candy—she’s a character who deserves depth, emotional complexity, and strength. Chastain has proven herself in roles like:
 The Help – Emotional depth and charisma.
 Zero Dark Thirty – Fierce, intelligent, and determined.
 Molly’s Game – A strong-willed strategist, much like Triss in The Witcher 3.

Can you imagine Chastain bringing that same intensity to Triss, navigating the politics of sorceresses while balancing her feelings for Geralt? Chills.

She Could Have Made Triss More Important

Let’s face it—Netflix’s adaptation did Triss dirty. Compared to her Witcher 3 counterpart, the show’s version lacked charm, intrigue, and screen time. Chastain, as an A-list actress, would have demanded a bigger role and given the character the spotlight she deserves.

The “What If?” That Still Hurts

While Anna Shaffer did her best with the role, it’s hard not to wonder what The Witcher could have been like if Jessica Chastain had played Triss:

 More screen time and better writing for Triss.
 A stronger love triangle between Geralt, Yennefer, and Triss.
 A more powerful sorceress presence in the story.

Instead, Netflix played it safe, wasting a golden opportunity to elevate The Witcher into truly legendary status.

Could We Still Get Jessica Chastain as Triss?

With Henry Cavill’s departure and major changes happening in The Witcher series, could Netflix course-correct and bring Chastain in for future seasons or spin-offs?

 Fans can only dream. 

What do you think? Would Jessica Chastain have been the ultimate Triss? Drop your thoughts below!