UPDATE: The original version of this article erroneously stated that Luka was the first LGBTQ+ character in The Witcher. The article has been updated to reflect the existence of LGBTQ+ characters in the novel series.
The new anime movie The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf released on Netflix today, and it includes the series’ first LGBTQ+ character for its TV/game adaptations. The film charts the career of the esteemed Witcher Vesemir. Along his journey, we meet one character who helps expand the diversity within the series, bringing the LGBTQ+ community into the world of The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf.
Beware of spoilers, as we get into this character’s role within proceedings.
Who is The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf LGBTQ character Luka?
Luka, voiced by Matt Yang King, is the first LGBTQ+ character in the universe of The Witcher.
We first encounter him as Vesemir returns to Kaer Morhen, home of the Witchers, after defeating a leshen in battle. During this conversation, Luka discusses his regret at not being able to afford to pay for the company of a man from his monster-hunting earnings, confirming the first LGBTQ+ character in the series’ TV/game adaptations, despite the presence of LGBTQ+ characters in the novel series.
Luka functions as one of Vesemir’s closest confidantes throughout the film. He accompanies Vesemir to bars and fights alongside him. Sadly, Luka doesn’t survive the end of the film. He is apprehended and killed by the sorceress Tetra and beheaded for artificially creating monsters for Witchers to fight. He then appears in a horrifying dream sequence, as his disembodied head giggles and drinks blood at a nightmarish bar.
Unfortunately, Luka’s role is small and sadly cut short. However, Luka was an important part of Vesemir’s development. As the latter Witcher is set to appear in season 2 of the show, perhaps we’ll see Luka again in flashbacks.
If you want more Witcher, then we break down the shock big-name cameo from Nightmare of the Wolf. We’ve also got details on the Spider-Man: No Way Home trailer that leaked yesterday.
