The Witcher Season 4's Surprising Geralt Recast: A Bold Move or a Big Mistake?

Summary

Critics argue that the introduction of a multiverse aspect in the upcoming season raises concerns about straying from the source material and potentially diminishing Geralt's iconic status and renowned identity.

Liam Hemsworth's casting as Geralt in The Witcher season 4 poses a threat to the character's storyline and undermines the established connections. The show can address this change through seamless continuity or through the implementation of magic. As the anticipated introduction of Liam Hemsworth as Geralt in Season 4 of The Witcher gives no logical explanation and risks compromising Henry Cavill's story, it has received widespread disapproval. The announcement of Hemsworth taking over Cavill's role as Geralt of Rivia for the fourth season raised concerns, considering the strong attachment audiences have formed with Cavill's portrayal. A change in the main character after four seasons is an intricate decision to make. Many expected a smooth transition without any mention of Geralt's alteration in appearance, and it remains uncertain if the conclusion of season 3 will offer any clues as to how this transition will occur.

The Witcher Has Multiple Worlds, But Not Multiple Geralts

Season 3, volume 1 of The Witcher, premiered on Netflix, chronicling the ongoing journey of Geralt, Ciri, and Yennefer as they evaded numerous individuals attempting to capture Ciri. Concealed, Ciri endeavored to enhance and harness her magical abilities under Yennefer’s tutelage, yet encountered difficulties. The Witcher, volume 2 trailer hints at Ciri's magic evolving, suggesting that she will defy the law and wield fire magic. Both volume 1 and the volume 2 trailer highlight the deepening bond between Geralt and Ciri, leaving audiences even more disheartened by the news that Cavill will not reprise his role as Geralt.

In light of Cavill's departure from the role of Geralt, an intriguing glimpse into season 4 of The Witcher has emerged, revealing Hemsworth's involvement. However, fans have expressed disappointment with the revelation. Rather than directly replacing Cavill's Geralt, Hemsworth will be introduced as a distinct incarnation of the character. This teaser suggests a multiverse element to Geralt's narrative, as the recasting will be attributed to "multiple worlds and POVs" (via Redanian Intelligence). By employing the well-known Marvel approach of showcasing different actors portraying the same character, the implementation of a multiverse would quell any inquiries about Geralt's sudden change in appearance within the realm of The Witcher.

However, the introduction of a multiverse direction in season 4 will further diverge from the original source material. Andrzej Sapkowski's fantasy novels, also titled The Witcher, have consistently established the existence of multiple worlds within The Witcher universe. This concept has been showcased in the Netflix series when Ciri breaks the monoliths, granting her access to new worlds. While the series has explored various dimensions, there has not been a multiverse per se, and Geralt remains the sole incarnation of his character. Geralt holds a unique and esteemed position in his world, even among Witchers, and introducing another Geralt would undermine his singular reputation.

Liam Hemsworth Needs To Be The Same Geralt As Henry Cavill

The inclusion of Liam Hemsworth as Geralt in The Witcher may raise questions regarding his altered appearance, both within the world of the show and among its viewers. However, it is important to note that this does not necessitate a different portrayal of Geralt. Over the course of three seasons, The Witcher has primarily focused on Geralt and his various relationships, be it with Ciri, Yennefer, or individuals from his past. Throughout his journey, Geralt has endured numerous dark moments, contributing to his tormented character. Nonetheless, he has also undergone significant character development, demonstrated by his growing affection for Ciri and his embrace of a fatherly role.

Geralt’s arc holds immense significance for both his own story and Ciri’s, as he exerts a considerable influence on her life and significantly shapes her decisions. By introducing Hemsworth as the new Geralt, not only does the actor change, but Geralt undergoes a complete transformation in terms of his character development. Hemsworth’s rendition of Geralt alters the dynamics of his relationship with Ciri, resulting in the loss of the profound complexities that Cavill had skillfully constructed. With a different Geralt, seasons 1 to 3 of The Witcher become devoid of purpose, as both the characters within the show and the audience lose their connection with Geralt.

How The Witcher Can Explain Geralt Changing From Cavill To Hemsworth

In order to address Geralt's transition from Cavill to Hemsworth in a more seamless manner, The Witcher could choose to simply overlook it. By utilizing effective hair and makeup, Hemsworth can closely resemble Cavill, allowing the story to progress effortlessly while maintaining consistency. Although this approach may disappoint fans who deeply admired Cavill's portrayal of Geralt, it is a common method to navigate through casting changes. Additionally, once season 4 is underway, there will be no need to acknowledge the recasting. Alternatively, The Witcher could leverage the inherent magical elements within the series to account for Geralt's transformation.

In Season 3, volume 2 of The Witcher, there will be an abundance of magical battles, with fire magic being the most perilous. If Geralt is injured by this magic, it may require healing that modifies his appearance. We have previously seen the mages in The Witcher possess considerable skill in altering the appearance and healing of individuals. Alternatively, as Ciri transports Geralt, herself, and Yennefer to other realms, it is possible that the act of transportation may impact Geralt's appearance, or that the conditions of these new worlds could bring about changes in him. The writers of The Witcher need to provide a solid justification for a new actor portraying Geralt, but they must be cautious not to disrupt the current storyline by introducing an entirely new character.