Since its debut on Netflix, The Witcher has captivated audiences with its rich storytelling, dynamic characters, and stunning action sequences. However, as the series moves into its fourth season, fan enthusiasm has been overshadowed by waves of criticism, with one central issue standing out—Henry Cavill’s departure from the role of Geralt of Rivia. The recasting of the iconic monster hunter has led to widespread backlash, as many fans believe that Cavill was the heart and soul of the series.

When Netflix first announced in 2022 that Henry Cavill would be leaving The Witcher after its third season, the news shocked fans worldwide. Cavill’s dedication to the source material, his deep understanding of the character, and his commitment to faithfully portraying Geralt made him a favorite among both book readers and casual viewers. His replacement, Liam Hemsworth, was met with skepticism from the start, with many questioning whether he could fill the shoes of an actor who had so perfectly embodied the White Wolf.

Now, with The Witcher Part 4 moving forward, the backlash has intensified. Social media platforms are filled with fans expressing their disappointment, with many refusing to continue watching the series without Cavill. Some argue that his portrayal of Geralt was the only reason they stayed invested in the show, while others believe that the series had already been declining in quality, and losing Cavill was the final blow.

One of the main reasons for the outrage is Cavill’s well-known passion for The Witcher universe. A lifelong fan of both the Andrzej Sapkowski novels and the video games, Cavill brought an authenticity to Geralt that few actors could replicate. He often spoke about his desire to remain true to the original lore, even reportedly clashing with the show’s writers when they deviated too far from the source material. Fans saw him as a protector of The Witcher’s legacy, someone who ensured that Geralt remained faithful to the character Sapkowski created. With his departure, many fear that the series will drift even further from what made it special in the first place.

Beyond the casting change, critics argue that The Witcher has been losing its identity. While the first season was praised for its complex storytelling and faithful adaptation of key moments from the books, later seasons faced increasing criticism for their creative liberties. Some felt that the writing had become inconsistent, with character arcs straying too far from their established paths. The loss of Cavill only exacerbates these concerns, as he was seen as one of the few anchors keeping the show grounded in its original vision.

Netflix’s decision to continue the series without Cavill has also sparked debates about whether long-running shows should recast their leads or simply end when a key actor departs. Some franchises have successfully transitioned to new actors, but in the case of The Witcher, where Cavill’s presence was so integral to the show’s appeal, the switch feels particularly jarring. Liam Hemsworth, though a talented actor, faces the near-impossible task of winning over an audience that remains fiercely loyal to Cavill’s interpretation of Geralt.

Early reports suggest that Netflix and the show’s producers are aware of the backlash and are working to ensure a smooth transition. However, fan trust has already been shaken. Many believe that no amount of writing adjustments or promotional efforts can undo the damage caused by Cavill’s exit. The discourse surrounding The Witcher Part 4 has become less about excitement for the next chapter and more about whether the show can survive at all without its defining star.

Despite the criticism, Netflix remains committed to expanding The Witcher universe, with multiple spin-offs and prequels in development. However, some fans argue that the streaming giant is prioritizing quantity over quality. If The Witcher continues to stray further from what made it a success, the loss of Cavill may not just hurt Part 4—it could mark the beginning of the franchise’s decline.

The road ahead for The Witcher is uncertain, but one thing is clear: Henry Cavill’s departure has left an irreplaceable void. Whether Liam Hemsworth can rise to the challenge remains to be seen, but for many fans, The Witcher without Cavill simply isn’t The Witcher anymore.