Baldur's Gate 3 actor and performance director Aliona Baranova has questioned why TV and film adaptations frequently bypass the talent pool within the gaming industry for major roles.

During a panel at the Tampa Bay Comic Convention moderated by Collider's Maggie Lovitt, Baranova stated: "It's unfortunate that the video game audience seems to be an afterthought for screen projects. We witness your incredible dedication… and I believe that commitment is currently being undervalued by filmmakers and studios."

This is a particularly relevant issue because game performers often contribute far more than just voice work to bring characters to life, including motion capture and providing their likeness, rather than merely recording lines in a booth.

"We constantly see how eager fans are to support our screen projects," added Baranova, who has also performed in Cyberpunk 2077, Lies of P, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. "Why haven't filmmakers recognized this yet?"

She specifically cited HBO's recent adaptation of The Last of Us, which cast the original game's Ellie (Ashley Johnson) and Joel (Troy Baker), though in different roles. The result? "Ashley Johnson became the most-searched person on IMDb when the series premiered."

"Why isn't this happening more often?" Baranova asked. "Why wasn't Doug Cockle in the TV series The Witcher? Why aren't we being considered for video game adaptations, even animated ones like Arcane? We would love to be involved."

The role of Geralt went to Henry Cavill, who has since left the series. Cockle did not appear in the live-action show, even for a cameo, though he did reprise his voice role in Netflix's recent animated Witcher film.

Baranova suggested that despite most video game performers having extensive professional training, the screen industry often regards them as specialists in a narrow field. "Many of us are theatre-trained," she noted. "A significant number formally trained in the UK… I think some executives are being shortsighted. They assume, 'They only know video games.' Studios are overlooking a video game audience that is immensely supportive, dedicated, and passionate about… their favorite performers from games. It's a missed opportunity that's being ignored."

This comes at a time when video game adaptations are experiencing a golden age, thanks to standout projects like The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Sonic the Hedgehog, and series such as The Last of Us and Fallout. With many more adaptations on the horizon, you can stay updated with our comprehensive list of upcoming video game movies and TV shows for 2025 and beyond.