Although The Witcher’s second season might have just started filming, excited fans will still have a long wait ahead for new episodes. However, the hiatus has not stopped the enthusiasm and speculation surrounding the popular franchise. In an acknowledgement of the ongoing hype, the Bronx Zoo has chosen to honor the Netflix series in its own humorous way.
While Henry Cavill’s portrayal of Geralt was a definite highlight of the adaptation, the protagonist’s relationship with his trusty steed Roach was such an integral part of his performance that some even wondered which horse Netflix would cast for The Witcher. The horse served as the series protagonist’s constant (and sometimes only) companion. The bond between the two allowed Cavill to add humanity and empathy to his performance, and it was this connection the Bronx Zoo referenced for its tribute.
In a tweet, the zoo announced that for Valentine’s Day, it would be naming one of its Madagascar hissing cockroaches “Horse.” It stated that it was only fair to bring The Witcher’s live-action horse Roach and Horse the roach together for February 14. In a final caption in the Tweet’s attached photo, it wrote “Horse & Roach 4 Ever.”
The Witcher’s official Netflix Twitter account quickly acknowledged the loving reference, and thanked the Bronx Zoo, saying that it was “an honor!” While several fans also voiced their approval, more diehard Witcher enthusiasts pointed out that Roach’s name did not come from a cockroach, but from the Plotka, or common roach, a freshwater fish. However, none of them objected to the tribute itself, and found it amusing.
When fans look back over The Witcher’s story so far and compare characters like Ciri or Triss across the Witcher novels, games and show, perhaps they will remember the Bronx Zoo’s small but hilarious acknowledgement of the Netflix hit. The fact that this unexpected nod from the Zoo happened at all is a testament to the cultural impact that The Witcher has left in its wake. While others might ship different characters with one another, it’s clear that for this Valentine’s Day, Horse and Roach are the One True Pairing.
Source: Bronx Zoo/Twitter
