The Netflix fantasy series The Witcher has long been a polarizing force in streaming television, blending epic monster-slaying action with intricate political intrigue drawn from Andrzej Sapkowski’s beloved books. After three seasons anchored by Henry Cavill’s commanding portrayal of Geralt of Rivia, the show underwent a major shift when Cavill departed in 2022, citing creative differences. Liam Hemsworth stepped into the iconic white-haired role for seasons 4 and 5, a transition that sparked intense debate among fans. Now, with season 4 having premiered to mixed-to-negative reception in late 2025, rumors are circulating that Hemsworth could be let go before the final season, with some reports claiming internal dissatisfaction from Netflix executives and directors over his performance.
Season 4 marked Hemsworth’s full debut as the stoic monster hunter, a character previously defined by Cavill’s gravelly voice, brooding intensity, and physical presence. The new season followed the Continent’s shifting alliances, with Geralt, Yennefer, and Ciri navigating separate paths before converging against rising threats. Hemsworth brought a different energy—more restrained, occasionally warmer, and less overtly gruff—leading to divided opinions. Critics and viewers noted that while he committed to the physical demands of swordplay and monster battles, his interpretation felt cautious, almost invisible at times, overshadowed by the ensemble and the show’s evolving narrative direction.
Many reviews described Hemsworth’s Geralt as “fine” or “serviceable,” acknowledging the impossible task of following Cavill. Some praised his effort to honor the character while making it his own, pointing to moments of quiet vulnerability or tactical combat that showed promise. Others felt the performance lacked the raw menace and subtle humor Cavill infused, with complaints focusing on overly expressive reactions, less distinctive grunts, or a tone that clashed with the established “resting bitch face” Geralt archetype. Fan scores on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes dipped significantly, reflecting broader frustration not just with the recast but with the series’ divergence from book canon, convoluted plotting, and perceived creative missteps.
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The viewership numbers for season 4 reportedly declined sharply from previous highs, contributing to perceptions of decline. This drop fueled speculation about internal fallout at Netflix. Whispers suggest that CEO and creative leadership placed much of the blame on Hemsworth’s portrayal for failing to recapture audience engagement, despite the show’s ongoing issues predating his arrival. These claims portray a scenario where executives viewed the recast as a gamble that underperformed, prompting discussions about whether Hemsworth would complete the final season or be replaced to salvage the finale.
Adding fuel to the fire are reports that Henry Cavill, the original Geralt, has spoken out in support of Hemsworth. Feeling the new star was unfairly singled out for broader production shortcomings, Cavill reportedly defended his successor publicly, emphasizing the challenges of stepping into a beloved role mid-series. Cavill’s exit stemmed from his own frustrations with script changes and fidelity to the source material, yet he has maintained respect for the franchise and its cast. His intervention highlights a sense of solidarity, framing Hemsworth as a scapegoat amid systemic problems rather than the sole cause of the show’s struggles.
Hemsworth himself has addressed the intense scrutiny surrounding the transition. In interviews, he revealed stepping away from social media for much of 2024 to avoid the “noise” of backlash, which he described as a distraction from his work. He expressed genuine fandom for the character—having played the games years earlier—and a desire to deliver an authentic performance without letting external pressure influence his approach. Co-stars and crew have praised his professionalism and dedication, with some noting he brought fresh energy and respect to the set despite the difficult circumstances.
The series remains committed to concluding with season 5, described as the final chapter where “the time of the end is nigh.” Synopses tease a reunion of the core trio—Geralt, Yennefer, and Ciri—facing massive opposition in a climactic payoff to the saga. Filming for the last season wrapped recently, with production shifting locations to capture the epic scope. Netflix has positioned it as a satisfying close, focusing on themes of destiny, family, and confrontation with dark forces. Whether Hemsworth sees it through depends on ongoing decisions, but the buzz suggests tension behind the scenes.
This situation underscores broader challenges in long-running adaptations. Recasting a lead after establishing a fan-favorite performance rarely goes smoothly, especially when the show already faces criticism for creative choices. Cavill’s Geralt became synonymous with the Netflix version, his commitment to the lore earning him admiration even from book purists frustrated with deviations. Hemsworth inherited not just the role but the weight of that legacy, compounded by a season that struggled to regain momentum.
Fans remain split: some defend Hemsworth’s version as a valid evolution, appreciating his quieter, more introspective take, while others lament the loss of Cavill’s intensity and argue the recast accelerated the show’s decline. Regardless of the outcome for season 5, the controversy highlights how deeply audiences invest in these characters and worlds. As Netflix navigates the final stretch, the hope is for a strong conclusion that honors the story’s roots, even amid the turbulence of casting shifts and shifting viewer expectations.
The Continent’s fate hangs in the balance, and so does Geralt’s future on screen. Whether Hemsworth rides out the storm or steps aside, the legacy of The Witcher—flawed, ambitious, and undeniably captivating—continues to spark passion and debate.
