When Henry Cavill announced his departure from The Witcher in October 2022, fans felt a seismic shift in the fantasy world. His portrayal of Geralt of Rivia, the gruff, sword-wielding monster hunter, had been the heart of Netflix’s adaptation of Andrzej Sapkowski’s novels. The news that Liam Hemsworth would replace him after Season 3 sent shockwaves through social media, with fans on X lamenting the loss and speculating about what it meant for Cavill’s other Netflix project: the Enola Holmes franchise, where he plays Sherlock Holmes. Fears swirled that his exit from The Witcher could spell doom for Enola Holmes 3, a film long anticipated but unconfirmed at the time. Yet, as of August 2025, Enola Holmes 3 is not only alive but thriving, with Cavill confirmed to return as the iconic detective. This article, spanning 2,200–2,300 words, explores why Cavill’s Witcher departure hasn’t derailed Enola Holmes, delving into the franchise’s unique appeal, production updates, Cavill’s evolving career, and the cultural resonance of a series that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

The Witcher Exit: A Clash of Vision

Cavill’s tenure as Geralt was nothing short of transformative. From the moment The Witcher premiered in 2019, his physicality—bulked-up frame, battle-scarred armor, and gravelly voice—brought the White Wolf to life in a way that thrilled fans of the books and video games. A self-proclaimed fan, Cavill immersed himself in the source material, often advocating for fidelity to Sapkowski’s world. His commitment shone through in every sword fight and heartfelt moment, making Geralt a fan favorite. But by Season 3, released in 2023, cracks emerged. Cavill’s announcement that he was stepping away cited creative differences, specifically the show’s divergence from the novels. He wanted a Geralt true to the page, while the writers leaned into broader, sometimes controversial changes.

The backlash was swift. On X, fans launched hashtags like #HenryIsGeralt, with posts decrying Netflix’s decision. “Cavill was The Witcher. Hemsworth can’t fill those boots,” one user wrote. Petitions circulated, and some vowed to boycott Season 4. The intensity of the reaction raised questions about Cavill’s relationship with Netflix, especially since the streaming giant was also home to Enola Holmes, where he plays Sherlock Holmes alongside Millie Bobby Brown’s Enola. If Cavill was willing to walk away from a flagship series like The Witcher, could Enola Holmes 3 be at risk? Would Netflix hesitate to work with an actor who’d publicly parted ways over creative control? These fears, while understandable, overlooked key differences between the projects and underestimated the resilience of the Enola Holmes franchise.

Enola Holmes: A Feminist Twist on a Classic

Enola Holmes burst onto Netflix in 2020, offering a fresh take on the Sherlock Holmes universe. Based on Nancy Springer’s novel series, the films center on Enola, Sherlock’s teenage sister, played with infectious energy by Millie Bobby Brown. Set in 1880s England, the story follows Enola as she navigates mysteries, societal constraints, and her own quest for independence, often outsmarting her famous brother. Directed by Harry Bradbeer, the first film sees Enola searching for her missing mother (Helena Bonham Carter) while uncovering a conspiracy tied to women’s suffrage. Enola Holmes 2 (2022) dives into a factory scandal, with Enola and Sherlock’s cases intertwining, deepening their sibling dynamic.

Cavill’s Sherlock is a supporting role but a vital one. Unlike Benedict Cumberbatch’s cerebral, modern detective or Robert Downey Jr.’s flamboyant, action-hero version, Cavill’s Sherlock is grounded, Victorian, and subtly emotional. He’s brilliant but reserved, his stoicism masking a growing respect for Enola. In the first film, he’s tasked with bringing her back to “proper” society, only to be outwitted by her ingenuity. In the sequel, he collaborates with her, revealing a protective side that adds depth to the iconic character. Cavill’s performance, marked by quiet intensity and understated warmth, complements Brown’s vibrant lead, making their chemistry a cornerstone of the series’ appeal.

The franchise’s success stems from its blend of adventure, humor, and feminist themes. Enola’s fight for agency in a patriarchal world resonates with modern audiences, while the historical setting—complete with corsets, cobblestone streets, and political intrigue—offers escapist charm. The first film drew 76 million views in its first month, and the second held strong, proving the series’ staying power. For Cavill, Sherlock was a chance to explore a character driven by intellect rather than physicality, a refreshing pivot from Geralt’s sword-swinging heroics or Superman’s godlike power.

Enola Holmes 3: Full Speed Ahead

Far from being derailed, Enola Holmes 3 is in full swing. Netflix greenlit the film in November 2023, with production wrapping in July 2025 after a 12-week shoot. Philip Barantini, known for the intense character drama of Boiling Point, has taken the helm, promising a fresh directorial vision. Millie Bobby Brown is back as Enola, joined by returning cast members like Helena Bonham Carter as Eudoria Holmes, Louis Partridge as Tewkesbury, and Adeel Akhtar as Lestrade. Most crucially, Henry Cavill is confirmed to reprise Sherlock, putting to rest any doubts tied to his Witcher exit.

The film’s setting shifts to Malta, a departure from the Victorian London of its predecessors, hinting at a mystery with international stakes—perhaps involving a historical artifact or a diplomatic intrigue, inspired by Springer’s novels like The Case of the Bizarre Bouquets. A first-look image released by Netflix in April 2025 showed Brown in a new costume, standing against a Mediterranean backdrop, fueling fan excitement. Cavill, in a May 2025 interview, teased “exciting narration updates,” suggesting possible voiceover elements or plot twists that deepen the Holmes siblings’ story. The film is slated for an early 2026 release, with Netflix banking on its proven draw.

The production timeline and cast confirmations show that Cavill’s Witcher departure hasn’t impacted Enola Holmes. Unlike The Witcher, a sprawling TV series with ongoing seasons, Enola Holmes is a contained film franchise, with each installment a standalone story. Cavill’s role as Sherlock, while significant, is supporting, requiring less time commitment than Geralt’s lead. This flexibility aligns with his packed schedule, which includes The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare sequel and a Highlander reboot. Netflix’s swift greenlight and Cavill’s enthusiasm—he’s called Sherlock “a role I’d love to keep exploring”—signal a strong partnership, unaffected by past tensions.

Why The Witcher Exit Doesn’t Spell Doom

Cavill’s Witcher exit was driven by a specific issue: his commitment to Sapkowski’s books clashed with the show’s creative direction. Enola Holmes, by contrast, draws from Springer’s novels, which take liberties with Conan Doyle’s canon, allowing for looser adaptation. Cavill has praised this approach, noting in a 2022 interview that the series’ “fresh, fun take” lets him explore Sherlock without the weight of strict fidelity. The films’ self-contained nature also reduces the risk of ongoing creative disputes, unlike The Witcher’s multi-season arc.

Moreover, Cavill’s star power remains a draw for Netflix. Despite leaving The Witcher, he’s a proven asset, with Enola Holmes 2 maintaining strong viewership and his brief DCEU return in Black Adam (2022) generating buzz. Fans on X have rallied behind his Sherlock, with posts like “Cavill’s Holmes is perfect. Enola Holmes 3 needs him!” The franchise’s success—bolstered by Brown’s rising fame post-Stranger Things—makes it a safe bet for Netflix, unlike the divisive Witcher recasting.

Cavill’s Career: A New Chapter

Leaving The Witcher and Superman (after the 2022 DCEU reboot) marked a crossroads for Cavill, but it’s also opened doors. At 42, he’s diversifying his portfolio, starring in action films like Argylle (2024) and executive producing Warhammer 40,000 adaptations, a passion project rooted in his love for gaming. Enola Holmes fits this new phase, offering a role that balances drama and intellect without the physical demands of Geralt or Clark Kent. Sherlock allows Cavill to age gracefully into a character, with potential for spinoffs or expanded roles, as he hinted in a 2022 Variety interview: “There’s so much more to tell in this world.”

The Enola Holmes franchise also aligns with Cavill’s desire for creative input. As a co-producer on the films, he has a voice in shaping Sherlock’s arc, avoiding the frustrations he faced on The Witcher. This control, coupled with the series’ lighter tone, makes it a natural fit for his post-Witcher career.

The Cultural Power of Enola Holmes

Enola Holmes has carved a unique niche, blending detective drama with feminist themes. Enola’s journey—defying Victorian norms to solve mysteries—resonates with audiences seeking empowered protagonists. The films’ historical context, from the Reform Bill to factory worker rights, adds educational depth, while the sibling dynamic between Enola and Sherlock grounds the story emotionally. Cavill’s portrayal, with its mix of stoicism and subtle growth, elevates this dynamic, making his return essential.

The franchise’s cultural impact is evident in its viewership and fan engagement. The first film’s 76 million streams set a high bar, and the second’s success solidified its place on Netflix. On Reddit, fans discuss potential spinoffs, like a Sherlock-focused story, while X buzzes with excitement for the Malta setting. “Enola Holmes 3 in Malta? With Cavill? Take my money!” one user posted. The series’ appeal lies in its ability to refresh a century-old mythos, making Cavill’s Sherlock a bridge between tradition and innovation.

What to Expect from Enola Holmes 3

While plot details remain scarce, Springer’s novels offer clues. The third book, The Case of the Bizarre Bouquets, involves a cryptic mystery tied to a missing person, which could translate to the screen with Malta’s exotic backdrop. Barantini’s directorial style, known for emotional intensity, suggests a deeper exploration of Enola and Sherlock’s relationship, perhaps resolving their tensions or introducing new family secrets. Cavill’s teased “narration updates” hint at creative twists, like Enola reflecting on her journey or Sherlock revealing more of his past.

The Malta setting opens new possibilities—perhaps a case involving smugglers, diplomats, or a lost artifact, blending historical intrigue with the series’ signature wit. Returning cast members like Carter and Partridge ensure continuity, while Cavill’s Sherlock is poised to play a pivotal role, potentially collaborating more closely with Enola. Fans hope for moments of sibling bonding, with Sherlock shedding his reserve to support his sister’s growth.

Conclusion

Henry Cavill’s exit from The Witcher was a blow, but it hasn’t dimmed the prospects for Enola Holmes 3. With production wrapped, a 2026 release looming, and Cavill confirmed as Sherlock, the franchise is charging forward. Its distinct tone, feminist themes, and Cavill’s nuanced performance make it a perfect fit for his evolving career. The Witcher departure was about creative control, not a Netflix fallout, and Enola Holmes’s contained format ensures smooth sailing. As fans rally on X and await the next chapter, Cavill’s Sherlock stands ready to deduce, inspire, and prove that some stories are far from over.