The dark fantasy series The Witcher returns with a bang in its fourth season, a reboot that marks a turning point for the Witcher universe.
With new faces, a fresh cast, and a story moving toward its conclusion, Season 4 is shaping up to be a turning point for fans of the world created by Andrzej Sapkowski.
This season, cast changes, anticipated plot developments, and what these changes mean for fans will be key elements that can impact your viewing experience.
Release date and production context
The fourth season of The Witcher will premiere on October 30, 2025 , exclusively on Netflix.
The production was filmed alongside the fifth and final season, allowing for a high level of narrative and a bold conclusion to the saga. This move demonstrates Netflix's commitment to the franchise and its intention to deliver a solid product before its conclusion.
Change of main actor: a new Geralt
One of the most striking changes is the replacement of the actor who plays Geralt of Rivia.
After three seasons with Henry Cavill in the role, Season 4 welcomes Liam Hemsworth back as the Witcher. This decision raises expectations and some suspicion among fans, given the character's iconic nature and close ties to the former actor.
What to expect from the plot
The official synopsis states that Geralt, accompanied by Yennefer of Vengerberg and Ciri, must traverse a war-torn continent, facing demons within and without as the three paths diverge before converging.
It has also been announced that this season will include animated sequences—a video game-style flashback in the vein of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt—which adds a fresh aesthetic layer.
Elements of production and aesthetics
Filming was delayed due to strikes by writers and actors in Hollywood, pushing the start date back to 2024. Still, the focus on special effects, dark settings, and epic action remains high.
The inclusion of animation within the story, flashbacks, and a more mature tone demonstrate that the series aims to evolve beyond its previous installments.
Imagining the reception and challenges
The change of actor and style pose a challenge: preserving the essence of Sapkowski's books, satisfying the video game fandom, and attracting new audiences as well as retaining the old ones, while always maintaining a consistency in the character between previous seasons and those yet to come, so that it doesn't feel as if the character has changed along with the actor.
Critical viewers have already expressed reservations about the lead actor's replacement. However, Season 4 is also expected to revitalize the series with narrative innovations and visual innovation.
Season 4 of The Witcher marks a turning point.
With a premiere date set for October 30, 2025, the series looks to renew its spirit with Liam Hemsworth as Geralt of Rivia, a revamped plot, bolder aesthetics, and a conclusion to the developing saga.
For fans of dark fantasy, Sapkowski's books, and video games, this installment is a must-see.
It remains to be seen whether he can balance tradition, innovation and expectations.
In any case, the fourth season is shaping up to be a key evolution for the franchise and an opportunity for the Witcher to shine once again on screen.
