Technology

Sony Axes Ghost of Yotei Artist Over Controversial Charlie Kirk Joke!

2025-09-17

Author: Liam

Shockwaves in the Gaming Industry!

In a surprising turn of events, a senior artist from the highly anticipated game Ghost of Yotei has been terminated from her position at Sucker Punch Productions. This dramatic decision reportedly follows a controversial joke she made regarding the assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk.

The Incident Unfolds on Social Media

Drew Harrison, a valued team member with a decade-long tenure at Sucker Punch, sparked outrage with a series of now-deleted tweets on X (formerly Twitter) shortly after Kirk’s death on September 10, 2025. Harrison's dark humor prompted a swift backlash, igniting a harassment campaign that included numerous anonymous calls and public calls for her dismissal from users, including industry figures like Mark 'Grummz' Kern.

A Bold Stand or Career Suicide?

The fallout was immediate. Just two days later, Harrison announced on X that she had lost her job. In a defiant post, she stated, "If standing up against fascism is what cost me my dream job I held for 10 years, I would do it again 100x stronger." Her words resonate with many who viewed her tweet as a bold stand against hate.

Sony Confirms the Departure

Sony Interactive Entertainment has confirmed Harrison's termination, stating, "Drew Harrison is no longer an employee of Sucker Punch Productions." This statement has only fueled the fire of debate surrounding censorship and freedom of expression in the gaming world.

Ghost of Yotei's Trailers Under Fire

As the controversy swirls, Sucker Punch Productions released a new trailer for Ghost of Yotei on September 16. However, the excitement among fans was quickly overshadowed by backlash on social media, with numerous calls to boycott the game and even posts expressing mock condolences for Kirk.

Industry-Wide Backlash

Harrison's dismissal highlights a growing trend where game developers face pressure from social media mobs for their personal views. Major studios, including Square Enix, Bethesda, and Activision Blizzard, are also under scrutiny following similar incidents involving employee reactions to Kirk's death. In a recent response, Microsoft acknowledged the situation, asserting that any comments inciting violence are completely "unacceptable" and do not reflect their corporate values.

The Aftermath Continues to Unfold

As the gaming community reacts to these events, the implications of Harrison's firing may extend far beyond her individual case. The conversation surrounding artistic freedom, personal beliefs, and corporate responsibility in gaming continues to grow louder—raising critical questions about the industry’s future and the boundaries of expression. Stay tuned as this story develops!