An Instagram user shared their concept art of Liam Hemsworth as Geralt, giving fans an idea of what to expect from season 4 of The Witcher amidst casting shakeups. The Witcher is a Netflix series based on Andrzej Sapkowsk's fantasy adventure novels which follow Geralt, a monster hunter with superhuman abilities. The novels gained popularity when The Witcher was adapted into a role-playing game by CD Projekt Red, where players take on the role of the titular monster-hunter Geralt. Henry Cavill (Man of Steel) plays Geralt in the first three seasons of the Netflix adaptation, receiving praise for his performance from fans and critics alike. In October 2022, it was announced that season 3 is Cavill's final season of The Witcher, and Hemsworth would take his place starting season 4.
As fans reel from the shocking news, one Instagram user, 83pixelstudios, envisions what Hemsworth will look like as the new Geralt. The digital artist uses their skills to create a poster for season 4 of The Witcher featuring Hemsworth front and center as the new series lead. The user takes an existing poster for Cavill's last season to pull off the transformation. While fans are still disappointed by the news of Cavill's exit, this concept art gives them a glimpse at what to expect from Hemsworth's portrayal.
Why Henry Cavill Is Leaving The Witcher Explained
When it was announced that Cavill would not return for The Witcher season 4, fans were upset by the news and began speculating on the actor's exit. Many fans believe the actor faced pressure to return to the DCU to play Superman. Cavill appeared in a post-credit scene in Black Adam, indicating future projects featuring the two superheroes are in the works. Others point out that as a long-time fan of both the novels and video games, Cavill wanted to play a Geralt that was more in line with the character from the books. As the series' writers deviated from the initial source material, it became clear that Cavill was less interested in finishing his seven-season commitment.
While not an easy decision, it is clear why Cavill chose to continue as Superman over Geralt. The iconic DC superhero is the more recognizable of the two roles, with a larger fan reach. While frustrating to fans of The Witcher, it is understandable that the actor would choose the role that will provide him with reliable work opportunities. Cavill was praised for his embodiment of Superman, and fans are eager to see him don his red cape again. Although the DCU has struggled to keep up with the success of Marvel, Black Adam breathed some much-needed new life into the franchise that the studio is looking to capitalize on.
Will Liam Hemsworth Make A Good Geralt In The Witcher?
The Witcher fans' disappointment is more due to Cavill's exit than Hemsworth's entry in the series. Hemsworth, best known for his role as Gale Hawthorne in The Hunger Games series, stated on Instagram that he is a fan of The Witcher and is looking forward to the opportunity to play Geralt, despite having some big shoes to fill. Cavill also praised the actor as he passed the torch, imploring Hemsworth to explore the depths of Geralt and find something new about the character. At this time, it is unclear how the series will choose to address the recasting of its lead. Cavill will return for a final time as Geralt in The Witcher season 3, set to premiere in the Summer of 2023.
Source: Instagram / 83pixelstudios