Since 2019, Henry Cavill has played the monster-hunting Geralt of Rivia in The Witcher, with season three currently airing. However, in October 2022, the British actor announced he would leave the show, with Liam Hemsworth taking on his character for season four.
Announcing his departure, Cavill wrote on Instagram: “My journey as Geralt of Rivia has been filled with both monsters and adventures, and alas, I will be laying down my medallion and my swords for Season 4. In my stead, the fantastic Mr Liam Hemsworth will be taking up the mantle of the White Wolf.”
“As with the greatest of literary characters, I pass the torch with reverence for the time spent embodying Geralt and enthusiasm to see Liam’s take on this most fascinating and nuanced of men. Liam, good sir, this character has such a wonderful depth to him, enjoy diving in and seeing what you can find.”
In response, some cast members have shared sadness over Cavill’s decision to leave, especially Anya Chalotra, who plays the sorceress Yennefer of Vengerberg.
“That news was hard to take because he’s family. We’ve been together for five years. So for anyone to leave after working with someone for that long, we’re going to feel that loss,” she explained to The Telegraph.
The actor was disappointed that the pair’s final scene was already shot when the news was announced. However, his sudden departure has been rumoured to be down to creative differences between Cavill and showrunner Lauren Hissrich.
In response, Chalotra said, “When we are all on set, we’re dedicated to playing these characters and bringing them to life in the best way. And that is exactly what I felt every day from Henry.”
