Jennifer English is stepping away from her role as the English voice of Gwendolyn, the protagonist of Tides of Annihilation, due to personal health reasons, the development team announced. English, known for voicing Maelle in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Shadowheart in Baldur’s Gate 3, informed the team of her decision back in June, and she will continue to support the project in an advisory role.
The team says English remained closely involved in the transition, working alongside other members of the voice cast to help find a performer who could carry Gwendolyn forward while staying true to the character. Her replacement hasn’t been named yet, though the team says her recent video game work left a strong impression on both English and the studio. The new actress is currently recording Gwendolyn’s English performance for the game’s hands-on demo at gamescom 2026, which is where players will hear her for the first time this August, along with select official updates during the same period.
The announcement closes with the team thanking English for bringing “depth, strength, vulnerability, and heart” to the role, while wishing her good health and happiness going forward.
English has been part of Tides of Annihilation’s appeal from the very start, and when the game debuted at a State of Play last year, I said the team deserved credit for casting the voice of Shadowheart in a post I titled “I Really Hope This Game Doesn’t Suck.” The good news is that everything since has pointed in the right direction, from a lengthy gameplay trailer that impressed to the flashy combat shown during an XBOX Partner Preview. I’ve really liked what I’ve seen so far, and here’s hoping the transition behind the mic goes just as well. It is unfortunate, though, since I was really looking forward to another fantastic performance from English.
English also shared the following statement on her Instagram story:
I’m really grateful to have been part of Tides of Annihilation since the game’s inception and to have worked with such a lovely team.
Recently, I’ve found myself needing to slow down and reassess the commitments I’ve taken on. After careful thought, I’ve realised I need to take time to rest and properly look after my mental and physical health. With that in mind, I’ve made the difficult – yet personally necessary – decision to step away from the project as it moves into its next phase.
During this transition, I was pleased to help introduce the Tides of Annihilation team to a very talented actor who I believe is a wonderful fit for Gwen. Having seen her passion, talent, and care for the craft, I’m excited for players to hear her interpretation of the role and can’t wait for players to experience what she brings to Gwen.
(Although I’ll be stepping away from the role, I’m happy to remain involved with Tides of Annihilation as an advisor, and I look forward to supporting the team and Gwen’s journey in a different capacity.)
I wish the entire team nothing but success, and I’ll be cheering them on as they continue bringing the game to life.
Thank you for your understanding and support ❤️
