Jennifer English recorded her Clair Obscur audition in bed at 2 AM after forgetting the deadline

Last-minute, bed-based casting strategy

Jennifer English has revealed that her audition for Maelle in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 came together in a hurry, at 2 AM, because she had simply forgotten to do it earlier. The performance that later helped earn her Best Performance at The Game Awards began, as these things sometimes do, with a deadline and very little dignity.

Speaking to Radio Times Gaming, English, who is also known for playing Shadowheart in Baldur’s Gate 3, said her approach to video game auditions is often less polished studio session and more emergency containment exercise.

“For me, it’s very last minute because I’ve forgotten to do it and filmed very hastily wherever I am.”

The audition was literally recorded from bed

English said the Clair Obscur tape was no exception, and that voice-only work often ends up happening wherever she happens to be at the time.

“Quite often if it’s just voice, I’ll just be recording it on my bed at two in the morning,” she said. “Which is exactly what happened with Expedition 33 because I forgot to do it. Don’t be like me.”

So, yes, one of the year’s most celebrated performances started with a bed, a clock that had already moved well past reasonable hours, and a forgotten audition. The glamorous side of the industry continues to thrill.

A standout role in a breakout RPG

Despite the chaotic setup, English landed the part of Maelle, one of the characters fans quickly embraced in Sandfall Interactive’s RPG. Clair Obscur went on to become one of the biggest releases of 2025 and one of the most acclaimed games of all time, with praise aimed at its combat, story, and especially its cast.

That cast included Charlie Cox, Andy Serkis, and Ben Starr, all helping bring the game’s ensemble to life.

English’s work as Maelle also helped Clair Obscur take home a record-breaking nine awards in one night at The Game Awards 2025, including her Best Performance win. She later added Best Lead Performer at the Golden Joystick Awards and is also nominated at the BAFTA Games Awards for Performer in a Leading Role.