Tissaia's Epic Transformation in Witcher Season 3 Will Leave You Spellbound!

Warning! SPOILERS ahead for The Witcher season 3.

This article contains mention of suicide.

Summary

Tissaia's death was a dramatic departure at the end of The Witcher season 3, and MyAnna Buring knew it was coming since it's based on the books.

Buring demonstrated a deep emotional connection to the character and extended gratitude for her transformative journey in the fantasy series.

Though Tissaia's demise is sorrowful, it also serves as a joyous occasion for viewers to have had the opportunity to become acquainted with her, paving the way for new narratives to flourish and develop.

The Witcher actress MyAnna Buring has responded to Tissaia's fate in the show. Buring portrayed the character Tissaia de Vries throughout The Witcher season 1, playing a significant role as Yennefer's mentor and the Rectrix of Aretuza, the training academy for female mages. However, in the third season, Tissaia's storyline takes a dramatic turn as she chooses to end her own life, leaving behind a letter with potential implications for future episodes.

During an interview with GamesRadar+, Buring discussed Tissaia's decisive act in the final moments of The Witcher season 3. She acknowledged that this death was expected, as it aligns with the original source material from the books that inspired the show. Despite this, Buring shared her own emotional response to the subject matter. The interview, conducted prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike, gave Buring an opportunity to reflect on her time with the fantasy series and express her gratitude for the experience. She also looked back on the journey of her character. Her statement is as follows:

When I joined the team three seasons ago, nearly five years ago, I was well aware that this moment would arrive. Recognizing that it marked the conclusion, it was quite an emotional experience for me, and discussing it today at the junket has stirred up those emotions once more.

It has been truly wonderful. Personally, it has been an exceptional journey, and I have enjoyed every moment. Watching my young son grow up amidst the filming of this show has been an incredible experience. Being a part of this extraordinary world has been an immense privilege, and I am filled with gratitude.

In terms of the character, I believe the greatest stories entail characters reaching their conclusion, prompting the emergence and development of new elements. Tissaia has been an extraordinary character to accompany, and while her demise is undeniably distressing, it is also a grand commemoration that we had the privilege to acquaint ourselves with her.

Why Tissaia Took Her Own Life (& What Happens Next?)

Tissaia's journey in The Witcher was riddled with challenges. As she assumed a motherly role towards Yennefer, her transformation became evident. However, despite her efforts, she was unable to protect Ciri from both Vilgefortz and her own students in the aftermath of the Thanedd uprising. The weight of these failures becomes unbearable for Tissaia, leading to the tragic events that unfold in the concluding episode of The Witcher season 3.

After Tissaia departs, she leaves Yennefer a letter discussing the consequences and sacrifices of magic that all individuals must bear. The absence of her mentor appears to serve as a catalyst for Yennefer's personal growth, as she assumes leadership among the mages. However, this role is not without its challenges, particularly due to the significant loss she has experienced.

In The Witcher season 3, Buring delivers an exceptional performance in her final episodes as Tissaia. The character consistently displayed determination and drive throughout the series, presenting a complex portrayal of a mentor faced with irreconcilable events. The upcoming episodes of the series will surely present difficulties for Yennefer as well.

Source: GamesRadar+