Actor and filmmaker Christina Wren has become known for her standout roles in blockbuster hits such as Man of Steel and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice; though now, Wren has to joined another major franchise with her latest role in The Witcher Universe. 

As Essi Daven in Netflix's highly anticipated animated film, The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep, she ventures into the magical realm of The Witcher, bringing a beloved character to life in a standalone seaside adventure. In addition to her role in the well-received Witcher film, Wren continues to shine on ABC's acclaimed drama series, Will Trent, demonstrating her versatility and depth as an actress–while also spearheading her upcoming film Swishy, a heartfelt coming-of-age story inspired by her own experiences as a first-generation American. Now, the multi-talented actor is opening up about her exciting slate of projects.

Can you tell us about your character Essi Daven in The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep? What drew you to this particular role?

Christina Wren: Essi is bold and warm, loyal, fun, a peacemaker. I love her brave spirit, her ability to stand up to those in power when she knows the truth and what is right. As a musical theater kid, I also enjoyed getting to sing!

Were you a fan of The Witcher universe before joining the cast? If so, what aspects of the series do you enjoy the most?

Christina Wren: The Witcher is a great universe. When it first came out, after working with Henry on Man of Steel, I had the feeling of watching an old friend shine as Geralt, which was fun!

What unique challenges did you face in bringing Essi Daven to life in an animated format compared to live-action roles?

Christina Wren: I really enjoy doing voice-over and would love to continue to do more of it! The biggest challenge was making sure I got her dialect right. I just want her to feel real and authentic.

How does Essi Daven's story intertwine with the main plot of The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep?

Christina Wren: Essi is a major liaison for Geralt and her childhood friend, Jaskier, as they connect with various parts of a community in crisis. She knows people in power, she knows the merpeople and speaks their language, and has a keen awareness of the local landscape and social networks. She plays a big role in helping them solve the mystery. And you know, enjoys getting hot and steamy with Geralt!

What would you say surprised you most about this experience by the time it came to an end?

Christina Wren: I was really surprised when Wes Gleason reached out to me about the audition. I worked with him on Army of the Dead: Lost Vegas and loved it, so when he shared he was working on The Witcher and asked if I'd be interested in auditioning, it was a big, huge yes! I was incredibly touched that he gave me the opportunity to throw my hat in the ring.

Switching gears to Will Trent, what can you share about your character and the upcoming season?

Christina Wren: Caroline is the assistant to the head of the GBI, which means she's on top of her game but she also brings a little sass here and there. There's a big moment for her in the middle of Season 3. It was incredibly cool to film and I'm excited to see how audiences respond!

You’ve shared that your upcoming indie film Swishy is inspired by your experiences growing up as a first-generation American. What are some of the core messages or themes that you hope to convey through this film?

Christina Wren: Swishy is near and dear to my heart. It's a fun, multi-generational story about a first-generation Lebanese American high school basketball player as she juggles her strict immigrant family's ideals, surviving socially in her urban, public school and keeping her increasingly serious—and forbidden—boyfriend under wraps. Ultimately, she's trying to find her purpose as she faces oncoming adulthood in a family that is afraid to let her grow up in a world fraught with strife. I hope to leave people wanting to support their loved ones in becoming their authentic selves and to inspire people to find ways each of us can contribute to a better world around us!

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