Patricia Summersett’s Journey as Princess Zelda in Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Has Been Life-Changing
Discover the remarkable tale of Patricia Summersett, the talented actress behind the iconic voice of Princess Zelda in the critically acclaimed game Breath of the Wild. Little did Summersett know that her audition for an enigmatic casting call would lead her to embody one of gaming’s most beloved characters, forever changing her life.
💚💚💚 pic.twitter.com/MuOndxHTTb
— Patricia Summersett (@Summersett_) May 12, 2023
Summersett, known for her diverse roles in films and animation, including Assassin’s Creed: Rogue and Rainbow Six, initially approached the audition as just another fantasy RPG role. Armed with a script featuring hints of Arthurian themes, she dove into the character’s weighty portrayal of a princess burdened with immense responsibilities.
Weeks later, Summersett received the life-altering news—she had been chosen to give voice to Princess Zelda in Breath of the Wild, marking a pivotal moment in Nintendo’s Switch era. The game offered an unprecedented opportunity to breathe life into a character who had traditionally remained regal and mostly silent throughout the franchise’s 40-year history. For fans, hearing Zelda speak was a mesmerizing experience that added depth and complexity to the beloved princess. Reflecting on her audition, Summersett is grateful she approached it without knowledge of the character’s significance, as it allowed her to immerse herself in the role without feeling overwhelmed.
Breath of the Wild aimed to illuminate Zelda’s impact on the cultural consciousness, revealing both her lightness and her darkness. Summersett’s performance added a unique touch, infusing the character with her own interpretation while staying true to the essence of Zelda as conceived overseas. As the game reached players’ hands, Summersett emerged as a superstar voice actress, captivating fans worldwide. The role of Zelda elevated her status, turning her into a symbol for millions of devoted fans. Summersett fondly recalls meeting fans from various countries and being amazed by their love for the franchise. Each encounter left an indelible mark, from shaking hands with passionate enthusiasts to witnessing the countless Zelda tattoos proudly displayed.
Now, Summersett is set to reprise her role as Princess Zelda in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, one of the most highly anticipated video games of 2023. Breaking the convention of non-linear sequels, Tears of the Kingdom directly follows the events of Breath of the Wild. Trailers have offered glimpses of thrilling gameplay, featuring Link’s innovative engineering and breathtaking exploration of the skies. As the game takes a more somber tone, Summersett’s Zelda once again tugs at players’ hearts with her longing and vulnerability.
Summersett’s return to the role came as a delightful surprise, as she received another casting call from the realms of Hyrule. The voice actress maintains secrecy, bound by a strict non-disclosure agreement, but hints at the magnitude of the adventure players can expect in Tears of the Kingdom. As an experienced performer, she aims to stretch her capabilities and breathe new life into Princess Zelda. With Nintendo at the helm, she assures fans that surprises and delightful moments await them in this latest installment.
Amidst the release of Tears of the Kingdom, Summersett eagerly anticipates the unveiling of the vast world of Hyrule, with its iconic locations like Death Mountain, Zora’s Domain, and the Goron Village. As the legend of Zelda springs forth once again, Summersett stands ready to engage with fans, answering their questions and sharing their excitement. The return of Zelda signifies a momentous occasion, captivating fans worldwide and reigniting their passion for this extraordinary franchise.
