Sony Terminates Employment of Ghost of Yotei Artist Over Alleged Charlie Kirk Joke

Update, September 22, 2025: In a recent interview, Brian Fleming, co-founder and studio head of Sucker Punch Productions, addressed the controversy surrounding the termination of a senior artist on Ghost of Yotei, reportedly due to a joke about the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. Fleming stated, 'The facts are accurate,' and confirmed that the artist, Drew, is no longer employed at the studio. Fleming emphasized that the studio condemns the celebration or trivialization of violent acts, considering it a 'deal-breaker.' The incident began on September 10, 2025, when the artist, Drew Harrison, allegedly made a joke on social media about Charlie Kirk's assassination. Harrison, a ten-year veteran of Sucker Punch Productions, claimed to have faced a harassment campaign, including anonymous phone calls, following the post. The situation escalated, with some users calling for a boycott of Ghost of Yotei and Harrison's dismissal from the studio. On September 12, 2025, Harrison announced on social media that she had been fired. In response to the situation, Sony confirmed that it had parted ways with the artist. The incident has sparked a broader discussion about the gaming industry's response to employee social media activity, with several major game companies facing pressure to dismiss employees over their posts regarding Charlie Kirk's death.