'The Witcher' season 4 reviews divided as critics react to Liam Hemsworth replacing Henry Cavill

Early reviews for 'The Witcher' season 4 show a mixed response to Liam Hemsworth’s debut as Geralt of Rivia

Early reviews for The Witcher season 4 have revealed a divided critical response to Liam Hemsworth’s debut as Geralt of Rivia, following Henry Cavill’s departure from the Netflix fantasy series.

The new season, now streaming, has launched with a 50% critic score and a 25% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, marking the lowest-rated season in the show’s history.

Cavill exited after season 3 due to creative differences and a desire to pursue other projects, with Hemsworth taking over as the monster-hunting Witcher.

Critics appear split on whether the recasting works, with some praising Hemsworth’s effort while others argue that the loss of Cavill’s presence is deeply felt.

Slashfilm noted that the season’s flaws “have nothing to do with Hemsworth's portrayal of Geralt,” adding that the actor “balances Geralt's vicious physicality with his ongoing emotional flux.” Collider echoed this, describing his performance as “entirely apropos for the version of the character he's portraying.”

However, not all reviews were as positive. Radio Times called Hemsworth’s take on the character “incredibly jarring,” criticising his vocal tone and suggesting that his “overall take on the monster hunter doesn’t measure up.”

The Wrap agreed, writing that Hemsworth “never rises to the occasion” and that the new season exposes how “flat he is in comparison to the memorable warrior from past seasons.”

The mixed reception extends beyond Hemsworth’s performance, with some critics describing the season as disorganised and tonally inconsistent. QiiBO described it as “slow, heavy, and disorganised,” though praised its “tremendous action sequences.”

Despite its uneven reviews, several critics highlighted The Witcher season 4’s strong action and expanded world-building, suggesting the series still holds potential.

Fans will now await to see whether Hemsworth’s portrayal grows stronger in the show’s fifth and reportedly final season.