Jennifer Hale, who voiced Bayonetta in the 2022 game Bayonetta 3, has shared her frustrations over the recasting drama that surrounded her role. In a recent interview, she described feeling 'thrown under the bus' due to nondisclosure agreements that limited her ability to respond publicly. Despite the challenges, Hale expressed enthusiasm for reprising the character in the future.
Background on the Recasting
Bayonetta 3, developed by PlatinumGames and released in 2022 for Nintendo Switch, saw a significant change in its lead voice actress. Hellena Taylor, who originated the role in the first two games, was replaced by Jennifer Hale. Taylor's departure sparked controversy when she publicly urged fans to boycott the game, citing a low pay offer of $4,000 for her return. Taylor later clarified in a statement that she had initially been offered $15,000 for multiple sessions but requested $250,000, which was declined, with the $4,000 figure applying to a single session afterward.
Hale's Experience and Response
Hale, a veteran voice actress known for roles like FemShep in the Mass Effect trilogy and Bastila Shan in Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, auditioned for Bayonetta after the recasting decision. In an interview with GAMINGbible on December 1, 2025, she revealed the personal toll of the situation. 'I definitely got thrown under the bus by that whole thing, and I was unable to speak on my own behalf because I was under not one but two NDAs,' Hale said. She appreciated eventually being allowed to issue a statement presenting the facts but noted that some public claims were inaccurate.
Hale emphasized her thorough vetting before accepting the role and her trust in the director. 'There were some things said [that were] presented as facts, but were false,' she added. 'I would have never taken a role otherwise.' Despite the ordeal, she described voicing Bayonetta as 'so much fun' and praised the community's welcoming response once the facts emerged.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Hale indicated openness to returning as Bayonetta. 'I would love to play Bayonetta again,' she stated, highlighting her affection for the character amid the resolved controversy.