Jennifer Hale Responds to Bayonetta 3 Voice Actor Change and PlatinumGames Controversy
Bayonetta 3, the highly anticipated action game from acclaimed developer PlatinumGames, is set to launch exclusively for the Nintendo Switch on October 28, 2022.
The title marks the return of the beloved Umbra Witch in her stylish, frenetic adventures.
However, the game's approach to voice casting has recently fueled significant discussion within the industry and its passionate fanbase.
Earlier this month, PlatinumGames announced that Jennifer Hale—the prolific and respected voice actress known for her roles as Samus Aran in the Metroid Prime trilogy and Commander Shepard in BioWare's Mass Effect series—would be stepping into the lead role of Bayonetta, succeeding Hellena Taylor.
Taylor had voiced the character in the first two entries on both Nintendo and previous hardware platforms, making her departure notable among long-time fans. In response to widespread debate and allegations regarding compensation and the voice actor change, Jennifer Hale released a public statement via social media to address the swirling controversy.
"Regarding my involvement with Bayonetta 3, I have been a long-standing advocate for fair and equitable pay for voice actors," Hale stated.
She emphasized her years of commitment to the community: "Those acquainted with my career know that I have immense respect for fellow actors and consistently champion the rights of everyone in the industry." Hale also clarified her position regarding the specifics of the situation, noting, "I am currently bound by a non-disclosure agreement, so I am unable to comment further.
My work and relationships in the industry speak volumes about my dedication and reputation." She concluded her message by encouraging fans to remain open-minded about the work of the development team, adding, "This game is the result of the commitment of many talented individuals, and I hope there is a fair and respectful resolution for all parties involved." This statement follows public comments from Hellena Taylor, the original voice of Bayonetta, who stated she was offered a $4,000 USD flat rate to reprise her role for Bayonetta 3—an offer she found unsatisfactory given her contribution and the game's success.
Taylor subsequently urged fans to boycott the Nintendo Switch exclusive and sparked broader conversations on fair pay within the voice acting industry. Bayonetta 3’s anticipated release, following its announcement during a Nintendo Direct, comes amid both controversy and heightened attention for its developer, PlatinumGames, recognized for action titles such as Astral Chain and NieR: Automata.
The game promises new gameplay mechanics and continues to build on the fast-paced action the franchise is known for, ensuring its high placement among upcoming Nintendo Switch releases in the eShop. As the situation unfolds, both PlatinumGames and Nintendo remain central to ongoing dialogue about fair standards in game development and voice talent recognition.
Fans and industry observers alike await further official statements.
Bayonetta 3 will be available exclusively on Nintendo Switch, adding to the platform’s robust roster of celebrated titles.
The title marks the return of the beloved Umbra Witch in her stylish, frenetic adventures.
However, the game's approach to voice casting has recently fueled significant discussion within the industry and its passionate fanbase.
Earlier this month, PlatinumGames announced that Jennifer Hale—the prolific and respected voice actress known for her roles as Samus Aran in the Metroid Prime trilogy and Commander Shepard in BioWare's Mass Effect series—would be stepping into the lead role of Bayonetta, succeeding Hellena Taylor.
Taylor had voiced the character in the first two entries on both Nintendo and previous hardware platforms, making her departure notable among long-time fans. In response to widespread debate and allegations regarding compensation and the voice actor change, Jennifer Hale released a public statement via social media to address the swirling controversy.
"Regarding my involvement with Bayonetta 3, I have been a long-standing advocate for fair and equitable pay for voice actors," Hale stated.
She emphasized her years of commitment to the community: "Those acquainted with my career know that I have immense respect for fellow actors and consistently champion the rights of everyone in the industry." Hale also clarified her position regarding the specifics of the situation, noting, "I am currently bound by a non-disclosure agreement, so I am unable to comment further.
My work and relationships in the industry speak volumes about my dedication and reputation." She concluded her message by encouraging fans to remain open-minded about the work of the development team, adding, "This game is the result of the commitment of many talented individuals, and I hope there is a fair and respectful resolution for all parties involved." This statement follows public comments from Hellena Taylor, the original voice of Bayonetta, who stated she was offered a $4,000 USD flat rate to reprise her role for Bayonetta 3—an offer she found unsatisfactory given her contribution and the game's success.
Taylor subsequently urged fans to boycott the Nintendo Switch exclusive and sparked broader conversations on fair pay within the voice acting industry. Bayonetta 3’s anticipated release, following its announcement during a Nintendo Direct, comes amid both controversy and heightened attention for its developer, PlatinumGames, recognized for action titles such as Astral Chain and NieR: Automata.
The game promises new gameplay mechanics and continues to build on the fast-paced action the franchise is known for, ensuring its high placement among upcoming Nintendo Switch releases in the eShop. As the situation unfolds, both PlatinumGames and Nintendo remain central to ongoing dialogue about fair standards in game development and voice talent recognition.
Fans and industry observers alike await further official statements.
Bayonetta 3 will be available exclusively on Nintendo Switch, adding to the platform’s robust roster of celebrated titles.
