The character of Triss Merigold is probably the most controversial and discussed casting and interpretation in Netflix’s The Witcher series. Played by Anna Shaffer, best known as Romilda Vale in the last three Harry Potter movies, Triss on screen is very different from how many fans imagined her.
For those familiar with Triss from the games, the contrast is stark. Her hair, eyes, skin tone, and ethnicity are all different, although many of her base personality traits remain the same. However, it’s not just the physical contrasts that have jarred game fans. Triss also maintains a much more distant relationship with Geralt in the show, rather than being his primary companion and love interest.
However, these differences may feel less stark to those who have read the books. Triss in Andrzej Sapkowski’s novels is actually a much more minor character with her appearance being barely acknowledged. Her ethnicity and skin tone are never stated, and her physical description is limited to “chestnut-red hair and cornflower blue-eyes,” a description not even matching the vibrant red hair and green eyes of the game’s interpretation.
The addition of Triss to the cast as anything more than a minor side character is more than likely for the benefit of game fans. Her role appears so far to be an amalgamation of the book and game versions, with a few twists thrown in. Therefore we can’t help but think the sky’s the limit when it comes to Triss’ character, so what other casting choices could have been made? Here are our selections.
Karen Gillan
When we’re thinking of feisty redheads, Karen Gillan’s name comes to mind almost immediately. Already versed in science-fiction and fantasy worlds, she has played some fantastic strong women including the iconic Amy Pond from Doctor Who. She’s also had experience in action movies and stunts from her recent role as Ruby Roundhouse in the Jumanji movies.
Gillan is an actress on the up and there’s no doubt that she’d make an amazing companion for Geralt. If you’re looking for a beautiful and talented redhead to fill Triss’ shoes then look no further.
Isabella Gomez
There’s a school of thought that Triss is a teenager or at the very least acts like one at times. While her age hasn’t been specified, she is generally considered to be young and is sometimes stated as being like a sister to teenage Ciri.
Triss in the games also looks young so what better choice than talented young actress Isabella Gomez? As we’ve already mentioned, ethnicity shouldn’t be an issue and the Columbian actress has certainly proved she has talent in her role as Elena in One Day At A Time.
Since Netflix hasn’t gone down the route of establishing Geralt and Triss as lovers they could easily have kept Triss as a young platonic companion, making Gomez a smart choice.
Amy Adams
This choice feels like a no brainer. Amy Adams is not only an experienced actress but she also looks more like the Triss we know from the games. She’s even happily become a redhead for past roles and can pull it off perfectly.
Adams has played some feisty and manipulative women in the past, with personality traits in common with Triss. This experience makes her a clear smart choice. Best of all she was Lois Lane to Henry Cavill’s Superman. How could it not be destiny to put these two back together?
Letitia Wright
Best known for her recent role as Shuri in Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, Letitia Wright is a scene-stealer. The talented young actress has an amazing presence on screen and is the kind of actress who can take a smaller role and make it feel like so much more.
These are the qualities we need in Triss who is a minor book character developed into a much bigger one through the games. Wright would help elevate Triss and bring her character to the next level. We have no doubt she’d nail the mannerisms and make the role her very own, creating an interpretation unique to the show.
Felicia Day
If you want to replicate The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt’s Triss, then Felicia Day ticks all the boxes for a perfect choice. With regards to looks, she has pale skin, vibrant red hair, and green eyes, just like CD Projekt Red’s Triss. More importantly, her acting experience and her hobbies make her as perfect for the role as Henry Cavill is for Geralt.
Day is a proud geek and loves gaming, including The Witcher 3. Her role as Charlie Bradbury in Supernatural has also given her experience with fantasy dramas and she even played Tallis in the Dragon Age: Redemption web series. She’s got the looks, the talent, the gaming knowledge, and the prior acting experience. What more could you ask for?
NEXT: 5 Actresses Who Could’ve Played Yennefer In The Witcher
