The Witcher season 4 review: Liam Hemsworth steps into Cavill’s boots — But does the magic hold?

After a long two-year break, Netflix’s The Witcher has returned — sharper, darker, and undeniably different. Season 4 marks a historic turning point for the fantasy epic, as Liam Hemsworth officially dons the silver hair and swords of Geralt of Rivia, stepping into a role immortalized by Henry Cavill. And while the winds of change are fierce, The Witcher manages to find fresh footing amidst its shifting stars.

Instead of a traditional “previously on” montage, the new season opens with a clever, in-universe prologue set a century into the future. A scholar narrates the legendary tales of the Witcher to a group of children, retelling Geralt’s adventures as myths passed through generations. It’s a smart creative device — one that subtly addresses the recasting while grounding the audience in familiar lore.

Liam Hemsworth’s Geralt: Familiar Yet Uncharted

The most scrutinized question entering this season was obvious: Can Liam Hemsworth fill Henry Cavill’s armor? The answer — surprisingly — leans toward yes, though with some reservations.

From his first appearance, Hemsworth’s Geralt feels physically imposing yet emotionally scarred. Following the brutal showdown with Vilgefortz (Mahesh Jadu) in Season 3, Geralt begins this season wounded, uncertain, and angrier than ever. Hemsworth channels that chaos with a raw, reactive energy. His portrayal feels less measured than Cavill’s — less the stoic knight, more the restless hunter. It’s a deliberate contrast, and while some longtime fans may resist it, the performance grows more compelling with each episode.

“I wanted Geralt to feel unhinged,” Hemsworth said in a recent Netflix roundtable. “He’s fighting not just monsters but himself.”

Old Bonds, New Energy

Returning alongside Hemsworth are Anya Chalotra as the enigmatic Yennefer and Freya Allan as the defiant Princess Ciri. Their chemistry — once built around Cavill’s gravitas — now evolves with a lighter, more unpredictable rhythm. “It felt strange at first,” Chalotra admitted, “but Liam brought an ease to the set that helped us all reconnect.”

This season’s storytelling remains true to Andrzej Sapkowski’s source material, blending political intrigue, brutal battles, and personal redemption. The show continues adapting Baptism of Fire, setting the stage for The Tower of the Swallow and Lady of the Lake — the final arcs that will define the saga.

The Verdict: A Rebirth Worth Watching

While not without growing pains, The Witcher Season 4 is far from a fall from grace. It’s a rebirth — grittier, riskier, and narratively confident. Hemsworth may not yet wield the effortless mystique of Cavill, but his take injects new vitality into a world too rich to stagnate.

The Continent still bleeds, sorcerers still scheme, and destiny still whispers Geralt’s name — even if the voice sounds a little different now.

FAQ

1. Why did Henry Cavill leave The Witcher?
Cavill stepped away after Season 3, citing creative differences and scheduling conflicts with his other projects.

2. Who plays Geralt in The Witcher Season 4?
Australian actor Liam Hemsworth, best known for The Hunger Games, takes over the role.

3. Will there be a Season 5 of The Witcher?
Yes. Netflix has confirmed that Seasons 4 and 5 were filmed back-to-back, with Season 5 marking the series finale.

4. Is The Witcher Season 4 faithful to the books?
The season draws heavily from Baptism of Fire, the fifth book in Andrzej Sapkowski’s series, maintaining close alignment with the novels’ themes and tone.

5. How has the fan reaction been to Liam Hemsworth’s casting?
Reactions have been mixed — cautious optimism blended with nostalgia for Cavill’s portrayal — but Hemsworth’s performance is gradually earning respect.