Even before season 3 is available to watch, there has been some big news surrounding the main character and monster-hunter Geralt of Rivia.
Henry Cavill will be departing the show at the end of season 3 and stepping in to take over is the brother of Thor, Liam Hemsworth.
Cavill broke the news on his socials by saying “My journey as Geralt of Rivia has been filled with both monsters and adventures, and alas, I will be laying down my medallion and my swords for Season 4,” said Cavill in a statement. “In my stead, the fantastic Mr. Liam Hemsworth will be taking up the mantle of the White Wolf. As with the greatest of literary characters, I pass the torch with reverence for the time spent embodying Geralt and enthusiasm to see Liam’s take on this most fascinating and nuanced of men. Liam, good sir, this character has such a wonderful depth to him, enjoy diving in and seeing what you can find.”
Hemsworth, as expected, is excited to fill the role, “As a Witcher fan I’m over the moon about the opportunity to play Geralt of Rivia,” he said. “Henry Cavill has been an incredible Geralt, and I’m honoured that he’s handing me the reins and allowing me to take up the White Wolf’s blades for the next chapter of his adventure. Henry, I’ve been a fan of yours for years and was inspired by what you brought to this beloved character. I may have some big boots to fill, but I’m truly excited to be stepping into The Witcher world.”
Fans of the show aren’t all pleased with the announcement, taking to twitter to voice their displeasure;
Henry carried the show pic.twitter.com/AmnwbNKyDk
— J. Taro (@SushiKebabGuy) October 30, 2022
It's pretty much like recasting Daniel Radcliffe in Harry Potter 4….
— Elzheiz (@Elzheiz) October 30, 2022
This image says everything. pic.twitter.com/76IzikMBJ3
— Domidawi (@domidawi) October 29, 2022
A lot of blame has been placed on the writers of the show who have been attempting to move away from the stories originating from books and games, which Cavill had been very much against.
They’re saying Henry, as a big fan of the books and games, probably wasn’t too happy with how the show was going and wanted out. So if that’s true, they are kinda responsible.
— Yoda (@YourDadYoda) October 29, 2022
Why is everyone saying that the writers hate the books? The show is based on the books though like any adaptation is probably not completely accurate. I haven’t read all of the books myself, I just couldn’t get into the first one (well the short stories). I really want to know
— Staraerys Targaryen lol 💫 (@wanted2befound) October 29, 2022
Some were also saying that Cavill’s imminent return to the rejuvenated DCEU is also to blame.
😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/vaoYslhckb
— spooky mingway 🎃 (@itsmingway) October 29, 2022
Lol, it has nothing to do with that. He will be busy with Superman and DC.
— Kaustav Nayak (@kaustavistired) October 29, 2022
However, there is still a lot to play out before Hemsworth picks up the sword. The Witcher: Blood Origin which is a spin-off that explores the creation story of the first prototype Witcher. That premieres on Netflix on Dec. 25 and The Witcher Season 3 will come shortly after in winter 2023 for Australians.