Genshin Impact Version 5.5 has seen a change in the English voice actor for the popular character, Kinich. This recasting comes amidst the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike and raises questions about the future of voice acting in the game.

The 5.5 update brought new Natlan content, including the characters Varesa and Iansan, as well as a new story chapter.  However, this update also marked a significant change behind the scenes. Following the earlier recasting of Ifa's Japanese voice actor in March, Kinich's English voice has now also been replaced.  

HoYoverse officially confirmed the change, introducing Jacob Takanashi as Kinich's new English voice.  The change currently applies to new content in 5.5, with older content slated for gradual updates in future patches. This explains the absence of Kinich's voice lines since Version 5.1, despite the character's prominent role in the Natlan Archon quest. This silence also affected other characters in recent events like the Sabzeruz Festival and the 2025 Lantern Rite.

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Kinich's original voice actor, John Patneaude, addressed the recasting on Twitter. He stated he hadn't voiced Kinich for months due to HoYoverse's refusal to offer AI protections in the form of a SAG Interim Agreement.  This aligns with the stance taken by many voice actors supporting the SAG-AFTRA strike, protesting the use of AI in video games.  Patneaude expressed gratitude for the opportunity to have voiced Kinich and thanked the Genshin Impact community for their support. He also indicated his willingness to return if HoYoverse signed the interim agreement.

Jacob Takanashi also addressed the community via Twitter, acknowledging the weight of taking on the role.  He thanked HoYoverse for the opportunity and acknowledged the 'big shoes to fill' left by Patneaude, promising to give his best to the character.

This situation isn't isolated to Genshin Impact. HoYoverse's other title, Zenless Zone Zero, also saw two voice actors replaced, drawing criticism for lack of prior notification to the actors.  

While newer characters like Ifa and Varesa have full English voiceovers, the decision to replace Kinich sets a precedent for other recasts. The future of other popular characters' voice acting