The Witcher Season 3: Redania's Sinister Schemes Unveiled - Exclusive Insights from Hugh Skinner, Cassie Clare & Graham McTavish

In season 3, part 1 of The Witcher, the story focuses more on the kingdom of Redania. Here, the spymaster Sigismund Dijkstra and court mage Philippa Eilhart scheme to maintain their power amid Nilfgaard's impending attack. Additionally, a new character, Radovid, who is King Vizimir's seemingly clueless brother, is introduced. However, this portrayal differs significantly from what fans of the games and Andrzej Sapkowski's stories may expect.

Notably, there are already connections between Redania and Geralt's bard friend, Jaskier. Season 3 explores Philippa and Dijkstra's plan to use Jaskier in order to gain control over Geralt's ward, Ciri. Yet, they soon discover that they are not the only ones interested in Ciri's fate. Radovid's increasing attraction to Jaskier makes him more difficult to manipulate than anticipated. As fans eagerly await the release of season 3, part 2 on July 27, they can anticipate further devious plans from these scheming characters involving Redania.

Hugh Skinner, Cassie Clare & Graham McTavish Talk The Witcher Season 3

Screen Rant: The intense interplay between you three - Graham, Dijkstra, and Philippa - is absolutely captivating. It's fascinating to witness his simultaneous passion for both Philippa and Redania. I'm curious how this dynamic evolves or clashes throughout the season.

Cassie Clare: I'm curious, who do you love more, Philippa or Redania?

Graham McTavish: He's definitely very passionate about Redania. He does have feelings for Philippa too, but as the season goes on, he starts to question his attachment to her. It's like being in a relationship where you think you understand it completely, but then you slowly realize things aren't exactly as you thought. That's what's happening to him. However, Redania will always be his first love, and he'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe. I'm referring to Redania, of course.

Cassie Clare: I feel a deep sense of betrayal and heartbreak. Philippa is aware that your loyalty lies with Redania and that there is an ultimatum between them and your life. This is the strongest bond she has and it is unlikely that she will ever trust anyone else on the entire continent. The foundation of this relationship has been built over years and you have constantly proven yourself. I'm certain that it took considerable effort for her to even begin to open up.

But I'm sure Philippa is very aware that it's Redania and then Philly. But I am Cassie, and very hurt by that.

Graham McTavish: Well, Redania was my first tattoo.

Cassie Clare: You've got the map on your back, haven't you? The map of Redania.

Graham McTavish: The Redanian map, yeah. Then there's Philippa, but it's in small script.

Hugh, the current incarnation of Radovid that we encounter this season is quite different from the Radovid we remember from The Witcher 3, which was hailed as the ultimate game of our time. However, despite the dissimilarities, he remains extremely exciting and entertaining. I must say that I thoroughly enjoy your portrayal and the romantic undertones you bring to this season. Could you enlighten us on how you envision this version of Radovid setting the stage for the Radovid we encounter later on?

Hugh Skinner expressed uncertainty about his future involvement and the unfolding events. However, the initial conversations indicated that this marked the start of his character's journey. It remains uncertain if he will further develop upon his return, potentially aligning more with the game's essence. This is primarily the inception of his story.

Nevertheless, portraying this character was enjoyable due to the unexpected nature of his persona. He becomes entangled in a horrific, deceitful, and nightmarish situation.

Graham McTavish: I won't extend another invitation for you to stay.

Cassie Clare: That's the gratitude we receive for propelling you into the limelight, where you truly belong. We have only assisted in enhancing your career and life, yet there's no need for appreciation on your part.

Hugh Skinner expressed his enthusiasm for the fortuitous encounter between the characters of Jaskier and the protagonist. He acknowledged the serendipitous nature of this event and praised its excellence.

Graham, given your prominent involvement in historical fantasy through projects such as Witcher, House of the Dragon, and your upcoming return to Outlander, if you were obliged to be confined within one of these realms, which would you choose?

Graham McTavish: The ideal place for me to work? It's quite simple. I wouldn't prefer being in Redania or Westeros. Even in Middle Earth, I don't think I'd feel comfortable being myself.

Outlander would be the perfect choice. The Scottish Highlands? It feels like home, perfectly suited for me. Dress me in a kilt and I'll fit right in.

Cassie Clare admires him when he wears a kilt, but Graham McTavish finds the rest of it quite overwhelming. Although there are no supernatural creatures except for Black Jack Randall in Outlander, at least he doesn't have to battle dragons in the show, which is a positive aspect.

About The Witcher Season 3

Monarchs, mages, and beasts from the Continent are vying to capture her, but Geralt is determined to protect his reunited family. He takes Ciri into hiding, while Yennefer leads them to the fortified fortress of Aretuza for Ciri's magical training. However, they soon realize that they have entered a chaotic world of political corruption, dark magic, and betrayal. To survive, they must take a stand and risk everything, or risk losing each other forever.

Don't miss our other interviews for Season 3 of The Witcher.

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The Witcher season 3, part 1 is currently streaming on Netflix. Season 3, part 2 will premiere on July 27.