SAEDNEWS: The Witcher Season 4’s first look introduces Liam Hemsworth as Geralt, sparking mixed reactions from fans while promising intensity, monster battles, and a storyline focused on separation, war, and reunion — with release set for October 30, 2025.
Netflix has dropped its first trailer and images for The Witcher Season 4, and with it, both excitement and controversy. Here’s what the fandom is talking about — plus what this means moving forward.
Liam Hemsworth steps into the role of Geralt of Rivia starting in Season 4, officially replacing Henry Cavill. Netflix’s first look teases Hemsworth’s Geralt in action — white hair, silver medallion, sword in hand — battling a wraith, employing Witcher signs like Aard and Yrden. It’s clear Netflix is trying to keep the fantasy, monster-hunting feels intact.
Hemsworth will carry the role through Seasons 4 and 5, the latter of which will conclude the show’s adaptation of the remaining books (Baptism of Fire, The Tower of the Swallow, Lady of the Lake).
Replace a beloved actor — especially one who played an iconic role — and you get reactions. Many fans are uneasy. Some describe Hemsworth’s first visuals as “jarring” and express concern that Cavill's departure might hurt the show’s identity.
But not all reactions are negative. Others applaud Hemsworth’s look and performance in the teaser, and many encourage giving him a fair shot. One fan commented that though Cavill was perfect for the original role, Hemsworth’s Geralt “looks promising.”
Season 4 picks up after the major war-altering events of Season 3. Geralt, Yennefer, and Ciri are separated, facing new enemies, navigating chaos, and finding unexpected allies. The tease suggests themes of war, separation, destiny, and “found families” — those who become like family even if not by blood.
The tone appears darker, more intense — the stakes higher. With final seasons on the way, the showrunners hint that changes are big, but the core character arcs fans love remain.
How Hemsworth handles Geralt’s signature voice, demeanor, and fighting style.
Whether the show maintains the visual/design/monster aesthetic that fans connected with under Cavill.
How the narrative deals with separation and reunion of Geralt, Ciri, and Yennefer.
Whether new characters or new monster threats (like that wraith in the teaser) are more central this season.
The balance between staying loyal to Andrzej Sapkowski’s books vs. changes Netflix might introduce for dramatic effect.
Because of the change in lead actor, the show feels like it’s entering a semi-reboot phase. Visuals, tone, and audience expectations are being reset. For many fans, this is a make-or-break moment: Hemsworth needs to not just imitate, but bring something fresh while respecting what came before.
If Netflix can deliver on strong writing, convincing performances, and satisfying arcs — especially the book arcs that remain — this could be one of The Witcher’s most memorable seasons.
