Following the news that Henry Cavill will leave The Witcher after season 3, social media was sent into something of a frenzy. However, we were barely able to digest that shocking news before it was simultaneously confirmed that Liam Hemsworth will take over as Geralt of Rivia in season 4.
While we can't take anything away from The Hunger Games star, the response to him being the show's new lead has not been too positively received. Hemsworth clearly has big shoes to fill, and we'd argue it would be somewhat unfair not to give him the chance to show what he can do as the monster hunter.
Still, fans are understandably anxious to know why Cavill would walk away from what he's always described as a dream role.
Deadline (via SFFGazette.com) has shared some new insights, explaining that sources have told them, "Cavill had made a short-term deal for The Witcher and felt it was time to move on after three seasons on the show, which films overseas and has a demanding production schedule."
As for whether his recent return as Superman factored into the decision, it sounds likely. The trade adds, "He already has film and TV projects lined up, including the just announced The Ministry Of Ungentlemanly Warfare, in addition to the Superman return."
We do think there might be more at play here, including how much The Witcher has diverged from the books and games (something we know the actor wasn't a fan of). Cavill may well choose to comment on his departure down the line, but for those of you concerned that everyone is getting recast for season 4, don't worry too much.
Sources have confirmed to the site that "Cavill’s Witcher co-stars renegotiated their contracts heading into Season 4."
That's good news, and means that Hemsworth will be surrounded by familiar faces when he joins the franchise as Geralt. We have to imagine the character is being overhauled to some extent, though, as anything else runs the risk of him looking like he's just cosplaying as Henry Cavill...
The Witcher: Blood Origin premieres on December 25, while The Witcher Season 3 will follow shortly after in summer 2023.