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Despite the departure of Henry Cavill, Netflix’s “The Witcher” continues its journey with a fresh face stepping into the role of Geralt of Rivia. Liam Hemsworth has taken up the mantle of the monster hunter for the upcoming fourth season. According to those working closely with him, Hemsworth quickly sought to put his personal stamp on the character.
Netflix
In a conversation with Tudum, Hemsworth discussed his approach to a key scene in season 4, episode 4, titled “A Sermon of Survival.” In this episode, Geralt receives a vampiric potion from the vampire Emiel Regis, played by Laurence Fishburne, to help him battle numerous foes. Originally, the scene was supposed to feature Geralt delivering a single headbutt. However, Hemsworth believed that one wasn’t sufficient and pushed for three additional headbutts. After a lighthearted negotiation with the stunt coordinator, Hemsworth’s vision prevailed, resulting in a more intense sequence. Hemsworth explained, “It’s such a violent, aggressive move at the end of this sequence that really added to what this new potion does — it shows Geralt as a little bit fiercer, a little more aggressive, and slightly more unhinged on that potion.”
Many fans were apprehensive about Cavill’s exit, as his portrayal of Geralt over three seasons was highly praised. Cavill’s intense demeanor contrasted with Hemsworth’s more approachable charm, leading some fans to believe the series should have concluded with season 3.
Despite these reservations, Netflix pressed ahead with season 4. Hemsworth’s dedication reportedly left a positive impression on the production team. Stunt coordinator Marcus Shakesheff shared with Tudum that Hemsworth adapted to the action sequences with ease, noting, “The action comes very easy to him. He works hard. And he picks things up quickly as well.” Shakesheff even remarked that Hemsworth “smashed it” during filming. Unfortunately, the fourth season received mostly negative reviews upon release. It’s a testament to the challenge actors face when stepping into an established role, as audiences can be tough to win over. Nonetheless, Hemsworth’s efforts were undeniable.
The Witcher season 4 was a rough transition
Netflix
Fans were certainly hesitant with Cavill leaving the series; in three seasons, he received acclaim for his portrayal of Geralt (arguably his only universally praised role). Cavill’s brooding nature runs counter to Hemsworth’s more guy-next-door disposition. Indeed, some fans even felt “The Witcher” should have ended with season 3.
Despite audience hesitation, Netflix trudged on with this fourth season. For what it’s worth, Hemsworth reportedly worked hard and impressed the show’s production crew. Stunt coordinator Marcus Shakesheff told Tudum in the same interview, “The action comes very easy to him. He works hard. And he picks things up quickly as well.” Shakesheff even went as far as to say that Hemsworth “smashed it” during filming. It’s a shame, then, that season 4 received largely negative reviews upon its debut. Sometimes, an actor can throw themselves into a role that’s been recast, but audiences will never fully accept them. You can’t say that Hemsworth didn’t try, at least.
