In bringing The Witcher from page to screen, Netflix undertook a difficult task. That was one of adapting beloved characters from the original source material. While most of the characters have stayed the same, that was not the case for all of them. One such transformation that garnered attention was the portrayal of Dandelion. Although the character became known as the eager and naive bard known as Jaskier in the series, there were some rather stark changes in the character from the books as well as the games.

From his name to his entire personality, the streamer decided to recreate the iconic character to fit their telling of the adventurous story.

Every change Netflix made to Dandelion in The Witcher

Over the years, fans have gotten many different The Witcher universes to delve into. From books to video games and most recently, the Netflix series, fans have been able to get a better grip on the story. However, each version does tend to stray from its source material. So far, most things have been kept the same, except for Joey Batey’s Jaskier. With a name change and many more, here are all the changes Netflix made to CD Projekt Red’s video game incarnation, Dandelion.

Netflix’s decision to transform Dandelion into Jaskier in The Witcher came from the desire for authenticity and some freedom with the adaptation. They went with the name Jaskier as it actually stuck to Andrzej Sapkowski’s novels in their original language. While the change could not help but frustrate fans, it helped create a faithful narrative for the fans of the series.

Apart from the name change, the streamer’s version saw the chance to switch up the character a little bit. Jaskier, as portrayed in the series by Joey Batey, ended up becoming way more than just a bard in the series. In fact, he actually turned into a character with his own identity and added to the show’s storyline. This change helped the show bring a balance between sticking to the source material and also bringing in fresh perspectives.

While the name change was a surprising one for the video gamers, the book lovers had their own reservations when they met the bard in the series.

In Netflix’s portrayal of Jaskier, fans of The Witcher can see that the character seems to stray from its source material. In the books, he is seen as an experienced bard. However, it looks like the streamer chose to go a different way. With the series having a younger and less experienced rendition of the character, Joey Batey’s character became one of the major characters.

Throughout the show, Jaskier has been seen as a spirited and somewhat naive man. This sudden change in age and experience added a layer of character development. It allowed the audience to see Jaskier’s backstory and personal growth in the series. Surprisingly, it also gave the streamer a way of contributing more to the storyline of the magical show.

Netflix’s visual makeover for Joey Batey’s Jaskier in The Witcher series was an amazing reimagination of the books. The streamer’s adaptation introduced the character with a flamboyant and brightly colored aesthetic. It thankfully, moved away from the subdued descriptions in Andrzej Sapkowski’s books. Along with his long hair and charming looks, the bard ended up becoming a fan favorite.

Throughout the show, his wardrobe always has a splash of color, eye-catching patterns, and stunning fabrics that are sure to garner attention. This visual transformation aligns with the series’ overall commitment to immersive world-building. However, it also underscores Jaskier’s role as a charismatic and flamboyant bard.

Apart from his clothes, Batey’s hair also seems to continuously change over the seasons. From a short trim to long flowing hair, the actor might still be looking for his perfect look.

Right from the first season of The Witcher, music and Joey Batey’s Jaskier have gone hand in hand. In the series, he could often be seen strumming or walking about with his lute. In fact, the actor even ended up recording a song for the Netflix adaptation called, ‘Toss A Coin To Your Witcher’. Thankfully, that was not his last song for the audience, he wound up giving the world nine more.

While his vocals were enough to floor audiences, the third season saw the streamer take a different approach. From ballads to catchy tunes, his music was performed to express his own feelings. However, in the last season, fans saw him using his talents to connect with people and to tell a story.

One thing that stayed the same in The Witcher books and series was the dynamic between Jaskier and Henry Cavill‘s Geralt. Although their relationship underwent subtle changes in the transition from Andrzej Sapkowski’s books, their friendship remained intact. The series added more banter and camaraderie between the two characters that the books could not.

The adaptation focused on Jaskier’s love for theatrics and it made their bond even more entertaining. While most would expect this change to weaken their bond, it did not. Instead, it ended up giving fans a new aspect of their relationship. It also enriched the on-screen chemistry between both the iconic characters.

What do you think about the changes Netflix has made to The Witcher‘s Jaskier? Let us know in the comments below.