Fans of Tom Clancy’s universe are brimming with anticipation as Netflix’s Geeked Week has unveiled exciting details about Splinter Cell: Deathwatch. This new animated series has been making headlines across the internet, particularly with the release of an intriguing teaser featuring the iconic character, Sam Fischer. Since the series was first teased in 2020, updates have certainly delighted the audience.
The last entry in the Splinter Cell franchise was Splinter Cell: Blacklist, the sixth installment that launched on August 20, 2013. Given the nearly decade-long wait for new content, fans are eager to see how Deathwatch will expand the beloved series. Read on to discover more details.
Has a release date for Splinter Cell: Deathwatch been announced?
While many of Netflix’s animated series have revealed their release dates, Splinter Cell: Deathwatch has stayed mum on this subject. However, the recent teaser has rekindled faith in the franchise, reigniting excitement among both long-time fans and newcomers.
During Netflix’s Geeked Week 2024, the title “Deathwatch” was officially confirmed. The adaptation was first announced in 2021 at Geeked Week, with an initial look showcasing Sam Fisher embracing his stealthy persona, complete with the signature Third Echelon multi-vision goggles.
A notable image displayed Fisher with blood stains on his face and coat, indicating that the series will undoubtedly deliver action-packed sequences.
After a lengthy silence since the 2021 reveal, fans expressed concerns. However, a job listing posted in December 2023 for a light and shadow supervisor reassured followers that the project is actively in development.
In April 2024, a member of the animation team responded to a fan inquiry on Reddit, sharing some insights about the project’s status:
“I can’t reveal much more but I can indeed confirm it is gonna be released, it’s currently in production… It was announced way too early by Netflix compared to when it actually started.”
In addition to the excitement, there’s a bittersweet note for the franchise’s fans; Michael Ironside, the original voice actor for Sam Fisher, will not be reprising his role in this animated adaptation. In a conversation with The Nerd Shepherd, Ironside explained:
“Netflix owns Sam Fisher. They’ve already shot the miniseries, an extended series with Liev Schreiber playing Sam. And I think it’s done and in the can. They also have an anime series with Sam that they’re going to push first.”
He added:
“COVID and the SAG strike delayed everything a bit, but no, I’m sure I’ll be 75 in the spring. There’s no way I should be playing Sam Fisher. I can’t be a part of the series because if I open my mouth, they’ll know it’s Sam.”
Ironside was last seen in Hulu’s The Dropout, where he played Don Lucas. The character Sam Fisher will now be voiced by Liev Schreiber, known for his role as Sabertooth in X-Men Origins: Wolverine.
What is Splinter Cell: Deathwatch about?
While many elements remain undisclosed, the plot summary of Splinter Cell: Deathwatch is still a mystery that will unfold with time. However, Derek Kolstad, the writer behind the animated series, shared some initial insights during an interview with Collider, giving fans a glimpse of what to expect:
“Every season is going to be self-contained, outside of the evolution of the main character. I like having one big, bad, one overarching story and one background story, with the A/B of it all, and yet, I look at everything I do — well, almost everything — especially in film and TV, as the best Westerns. He rides off into the sunset because he’s going to do the same f***ing thing the next town over until he dies doing it.”
More information about Splinter Cell: Deathwatch will be revealed soon, including cast details, the official logline, and the soundtrack.
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