The Witcher fans have vowed to quit watching the hit Netflix show after season three, as Henry Cavill plays Geralt of Rivia for the final time. The latest instalment of the series, season three, part one, was released on Thursday (June 29), while the second part is scheduled to drop on July 27.
Brit Henry has portrayed the show's lead character since its debut in 2019. In October, he announced he would be stepping down from The Witcher and replaced by Liam Hemsworth from season four onwards.
Just days before the news broke, it was confirmed Henry would reprise his role as Superman in the DC Extended Universe. But ironically, House of Cards actor David Corenswet has since taken over as the iconic superhero.
Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features.
The Witcher fans took to social media to vent their frustration as the new season launched. Many threatened to boycott any future seasons, while others demanded Henry's return.
Posting on Twitter, @JVJDesigns said: "Final season for me" while @prviouslyskinny agreed: "Best believe this is the last season I'll ever watch". @feverfudge asked: "The last season to watch coz why would I want a Witcher that's not Cavill? No offence, Liam," and @justinphotomode added: "Let’s keep @official_Cavil for future seasons please".
@SoftForHenry wrote: "I‘m so sad that this will be Henry‘s last season. He was the one who captivated me the most when I first watched the show, his portrayal of Geralt is absolutely phenomenal and he can’t be replaced. Sadly, this will be the last season I‘ll be watching".
Henry confirmed his departure from The Witcher via a statement on Instagram last year. He told his 25 million followers: “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.”
Join our WhatsApp Top Stories and Breaking News group by clicking this link
Meanwhile Australian actor Liam he was “over the moon” to be given the opportunity and “honoured” to be handed the reins from Henry. He added: "Henry, I’ve been a fan of yours for years and was inspired by what you brought to this beloved character. I may have some big boots to fill, but I’m truly excited to be stepping into The Witcher world.”
Though neither Netflix or Henry have confirmed the reason for the departure, fans have speculated he stepped down because his vision for the show did not align with the writers’ plans and the shows differences to its source material, of which Henry is known to be a fan.
Henry was set to reprise his Superman role after playing the comic book icon in 2013's Man of Steel, 2016's Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and 2017's Justice League. In a twist of fate, that all changed.
New DC Studios bosses James Gunn and Peter Safran decided to shake things up and cast House of Cards actor David Corenswet for the upcoming Superman: Legacy film instead.
Returning to Instagram, Henry addressed the situation. He wrote: "After being told by the studio to announce my return back in October, prior to their hire, this news isn't the easiest, but that's life. The changing of the guard is something that happens. I respect that.
"James and Peter have a universe to build. I wish them and all involved with the new universe the best of luck, and the happiest of fortunes."
Netflix has since confirmed that Henry will not be returning as Geralt for season four, with Liam remaining in the role.
The Witcher Season Three Part One is available to stream on Netflix. Part Two drops on Thursday July 27.