Netflix’s highly anticipated fourth season of The Witcher debuted on March 14, 2024, but early reviews suggest it may not meet fan expectations. The season has garnered a disappointing 18% score on Rotten Tomatoes, raising concerns among viewers and critics alike. The transition from Henry Cavill to Liam Hemsworth in the lead role of Geralt of Rivia appears to have contributed to the backlash.
Fans have expressed dissatisfaction with the new direction of the series, with some likening it to a “mockery” of Andrzej Sapkowski‘s original books. The series, which follows a mutated monster hunter navigating a perilous world, experienced a rocky start with the change in its lead actor. The season opened with a brief voice-over featuring Cavill’s Geralt, before shifting to Hemsworth’s portrayal, a move that has not resonated well with many long-time fans.
Critics have also been divided on Hemsworth’s performance. While some viewers have found elements of surprise in his portrayal, others feel it lacks the depth and charisma that Cavill brought to the character. One critic remarked, “While his predecessor invested Geralt I with a gruff likability, Geralt II is less ‘valorous man-mountain grappling with responsibilities beyond our ken’ and more ‘bollard in a wig’.”
The storytelling itself has faced criticism for feeling rushed, particularly given the rich lore established in Sapkowski’s works. Key scenes that fans eagerly anticipated appeared in a swift montage, leaving many feeling unsatisfied. The quick recaps and character changes have led to a lack of engagement, especially when considering Netflix’s capacity for high-quality content.
As the series progresses towards its conclusion, with a fifth season already filmed and set to release in late 2025, fans are left wondering about the future of The Witcher. Netflix has also introduced spin-offs, including The Rats: A Witcher Tale, alongside previous projects like The Witcher: Blood Origin and The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf, aimed at satiating the audience’s hunger for more content from this universe.
Despite the challenges faced in Season 4, Netflix remains committed to the franchise, with hopes that future installments will better capture the essence of the source material and meet the expectations of its dedicated fan base.
