The fantasy epic “The Witcher” has returned for its fourth season on Netflix, marking a pivotal shift as Liam Hemsworth takes over the iconic role of Geralt of Rivia from Henry Cavill.

Released on October 30, 2025, the season adapts elements from Andrzej Sapkowski’s novels, focusing on Geralt’s recovery and quest to reunite with Yennefer and Ciri amid escalating wars on the Continent.

Hemsworth’s debut has been met with mixed reactions, highlighting the challenges of replacing a beloved lead in an established series.

The transition feels abrupt for many viewers, who grew attached to Cavill’s gravelly intensity and faithful portrayal over three seasons.

Early viewership numbers reflect this divide, with Season 4 garnering only 7.4 million views in its first four days—a sharp drop from previous launches.

This marks the lowest debut for the franchise, underscoring how Cavill’s departure has impacted audience enthusiasm.

Critics have offered varied takes on Hemsworth’s performance.

Some praise his effort, noting he brings a fresh energy and handles action sequences competently, evolving into a version suited for the character’s current arc.

Others find him lacking Cavill’s commanding presence, describing his Geralt as less charismatic or jarringly different in tone and delivery.

The trailer itself acknowledged the change metaphorically, with lines about Geralt being “in a state of flux” and “becoming something new,” interpreted by fans as a nod to the recast.

Despite the controversy, the season introduces compelling new elements.

Laurence Fishburne joins as the vampire Regis, adding depth with his worldly barber-surgeon persona.

The story expands on Ciri’s journey, emphasizing her growth amid peril, while Geralt assembles a ragtag group of allies for monster hunts and political intrigue.

Yennefer’s arc explores newfound power, and returning favorites like Jaskier provide comic relief.

Production wrapped Seasons 4 and 5 back-to-back, ensuring the series will conclude with its planned finale.

Showrunner Lauren Schmidt Hissrich has defended the narrative choices, stressing the need to honor the books while adapting for screen.

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Yet, deviations from source material continue to fuel debates, echoing past criticisms that reportedly contributed to Cavill’s exit.

Cavill, a vocal fan of the books and games, left after Season 3, citing a desire to pursue other projects like Warhammer 40,000 adaptations.

He has remained gracious, passing the torch publicly, but has not commented extensively on Season 4.

Fan responses remain polarized.

Online petitions from years ago demanding Cavill’s return linger with hundreds of thousands of signatures, though no new major campaigns emerged post-release.

Social media floods with comparisons: side-by-side edits, memes lamenting the loss of Cavill’s “gluteus maximus” physique, or praise for those warming to Hemsworth’s take.

Many admit the show feels different—less brooding, more ensemble-driven—but some argue it’s an improvement in pacing and cohesion over Season 3.

Viewership decline is stark when compared to predecessors.

Season 3 opened stronger, and the franchise once rivaled “Game of Thrones” in hype.

Now, romantic comedies outperform it in early weeks, signaling potential fatigue or boycott from dedicated fans.

Netflix’s silence on the numbers speaks volumes, as emergency meetings reportedly discuss damage control.

The platform defends the recast, highlighting Hemsworth’s “new energy,” but acceptance varies globally.

In some regions, the show still tops charts, buoyed by international appeal and the broader Witcher universe, including animated films and games.

Monster designs and fight choreography receive praise, with thrilling sequences against wraiths and other beasts.

Ciri’s storyline, involving the Rats gang, draws emotional investment, though some subplots feel dragged or forced.

Overall ratings hover around 7-8/10 from critics, calling it a “solid step up” or “upgrade” in structure, despite the lead change.

Audience scores are lower, reflecting nostalgia for Cavill’s era.

As the penultimate season, it sets up high stakes for the finale: reunions, betrayals, and Continent-shaking revelations.

Whether Netflix regains lost trust remains uncertain.

The Witcher was once a flagship fantasy series, blending swordplay, magic, and moral ambiguity.

Today, it’s mired in recast drama, reminding viewers that replacing an actor means more than a new face—it’s altering the soul of a character fans held dear.

Hemsworth faces immense pressure, but his commitment shines through in interviews, where he admits initial reluctance yet enthusiasm for the role.

Co-stars like Freya Allan express sympathy for the backlash he endures.

For better or worse, Season 4 proves the show can continue without Cavill, focusing on ensemble dynamics and book adaptations like “Baptism of Fire.”

It may not recapture peak glory, but it offers closure for those willing to embrace change.

As Geralt grunts his way forward, the real monster might be fan division itself.

With Season 5 looming, the White Wolf’s path is set—reborn, if not universally welcomed.

The Continent endures, but its Witcher feels forever altered.