The Witcherseason 4 will see Liam Hemsworth step into the role of Geralt of Rivia, but this new version of the White Wolf should not leave behind one underrated part of Henry Cavill’s characterization. Netflix’s ambitious fantasy show premiered in 2021, with Cavill stepping into the role ofAndrzej Sapkowski’sWitcherbooks' iconic mutant. After leading the series for three seasons, it was confirmed in October 2022 that Cavill would be departing the series.Hemsworth is taking over the role of Geraltfor seasons 4 and 5, the latter of which will end the show.
Within theworld ofThe Witcher, Geralt unintentionally finds himself becoming the guardian, mentor, and father figure of Ciri (Freya Allen), teaching her the ways of the witcher. Ultimately,The Witcherseason 3 saw the pair become separated, with Geralt ultimately setting off to recover her from the Nilfgaard territories that he assumes she has been taken to.Geralt will naturally be different in season 4, given the progression of the story, but Hemsworth’s character must still be similar to Cavill’s version in one important way.
Henry Cavill’s Geralt Is Low-Key Funny
Geralt’s Humor Welcomed Viewers Into The World
Cavill’s portrayal of Geralt is a stern and formidable fighter, a man of few words who remains dedicated to the jobs he takes on until the end, and is caring of those close to him, even if he doesn’t always communicate it. However,a little-spoke-of element of Cavill’s characterisation is his more humorous side.With his no-nonsense nature, Geralt’s reactions to certain developments have often provided The Witcher with some of its funnier moments, whether they’re of exasperation or annoyance.
Geralt’s humor is a major benefit to the series for several reasons. Alongside showing that he is more than a warrior for hire, it also allows him to strike a balance between acting as a surrogate for the audience and being knowledgable of the world he is part, as while he may know of the threats he faces, his dry wit and more sardonic reactions can help viewers, whom have no experience in fighting fantastical threats, relate to him through how he reacts to the monster. This trait can quickly endear a character to an audience.
Keeping This Part Of Geralt Can Help Liam Hemsworth Replace Cavill
Hemsworth Has To Prove Himself A Worthy Successor
Hemsworth’s portrayal of Geralt should keep that unintentionally humorous side of the character. Cavill was incredibly passionate about the source material and the character, which could be seen through his portrayal of Geralt. His smaller mannerisms and deliveries added depth to the character and are something that audiences grew to appreciate.
It is undeniable thatHemsworth replacing Cavill still remains controversial, even if he is perfectly capable of matching his predecessor’s portrayal.As such, to avoid overbearing scrutiny, one such way for the series to help Hemsworth’s portrayal of Geralt settle in with skeptical viewers would be for him to embrace Geralt’s sardonic humor. Not only would this show consistent characterisation, but allow the actor to gradually endear himself to viewers.
Will Liam Hemsworth Be Given Enough Of A Chance As Geralt?
A Good Impression Could Allow The Series To End On A Strong Note
Ahead ofThe Witcherseason 4’s release, Hemsworth’s Geralt will have the difficult mission of carrying the show through its final two seasons. Even almost three years after the announcement of the recasting, many viewers are still doubtful of it being a positive move, believing that it could be a sign thatThe Witcher’s best days are behind it and that it has lost focus on what made the series initially successful. This could likely see season 4 receiving a lower viewership, ensuring the series ends with a whimper.
IfThe Witcherseason 4 allows Hemsworth to embrace every facet of what audiences loved about Geralt, the show may be able to end on a high note.
However, if Hemsworth can hone in on what made Geralt’s portrayal special, the final two seasons could still work. Should Hemsworth’s portrayal of Geralt earn rave reviews, skeptical fans' interests may be piqued enough to check the series out for themselves even if just to check this new take on the White Wolf. IfThe Witcherseason 4 allows Hemsworth to embrace every facet of what audiences loved about Geralt, the show may be able to end on a high note despite all the challenges it has faced.
