The Witcher has returned to Netflix with Henry Cavill in the role of Geralt of Rivia for the very last time. Season three was released on the streaming service on Thursday, June 29 at 8am in the UK and will be separated into two parts.
The new season is inspired by the second installment in Andrzej Sapkowski's Witcher book series, Time of Contempt, and will see Geralt of Rivia finally reckoning with his feelings. Although there will still be plenty of mages and beasts to fend off as he and Yennefer of Vengerberg [Anya Chalotra] continue to protect Princess Cirilla of Cintra [Freya Allan].
A synopsis reads: "Geralt takes Ciri into hiding, determined to protect his newly-reunited family against those who threaten to destroy it. Entrusted with Ciri’s magical training, Yennefer leads them to the protected fortress of Aretuza, where they hope to uncover more about the girl’s untapped powers; instead, they discover they’ve landed in a battlefield of political corruption, dark magic, and treachery. They must fight back, put everything on the line – or risk losing each other forever."
The series is a poignant one as it is Henry's last season in the role before Liam Hemsworth takes over in season 4. Here's everything you need to know.
How many episodes of The Witcher season 3 are there?
The series has been split into two parts with the first five episodes landing on Netflix on Thursday, June 29 at 8am in the UK, meanwhile, Volume 2 will feature episodes six to eight and makes its debut on July 27.
The Witcher season 3 cast list
Those appearing in part one include:
- Henry Cavill plays Geralt of Rivia
- Freya Allan is Cirilla
- Anya Chalotra portays Yennefer of Vengerberg
- Joey Batey as Jaskier
- Mimî M Khayisa as Fringilla Vigo
- Eamon Farren plays Cahir
- MyAnna Buring as Tissaia de Vries
- Wilson Mbomio is Dara
- Tom Canton as Filavandrel
- Robbie Amell as Gallatin
- Meng’er Zhang as Milva
- Hugh Skinner as Prince Radovid
- Christelle Elwin as Mistle
Why is Henry Cavill leaving The Witcher?
Season 3 of The Witcher will be bittersweet for some viewers as it is Henry's last series in the role and the actor's portrayal of Geralt of Rivia has been embraced by fans.
While Henry hasn't detailed his reasons for stepping down from the role, he did share the news with his 25 million Instagram followers in October 2022. He said in a statement: "Some news to share from The Continent…
"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."
Although Henry hasn't shared the reasons behind his departure, his announcement came just days after the actor confirmed be would be reprising his role as Superman in the DC Extended Universe. However, two months later James Gunn was announced as the new co-CEO of DC Studios and Henry revealed his comeback wasn't meant to be.
He said in a statement: "I have just had a meeting with James Gunn and Peter Safran and it's sad news, everyone. 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 wash them and all involved with the new universe the best of luck, and the happiest of fortunes." For more showbiz and television stories get our newsletter here.
