In a surprising twist, Netflix is steadfastly moving forward with the production of ‘The Witcher‘ Season 5, despite the show’s popularity waning considerably. This decision stands in stark contrast to the platform’s recent cancellation of several well-received fantastical series such as ‘Warrior Nun’, ‘1899’, and ‘Lockwood & Co’.
Netflix’s actions have elicited a strong backlash from its subscribers. Fan petitions and vocal demands seem to fall on deaf ears as the streaming behemoth opts to renew programs that have fallen out of favor, raising questions about the company’s direction and regard for its viewer base.
The Unending Saga of ‘The Witcher’
‘The Witcher’ serves as a case in point. Once hailed as a crowd favorite, the series has suffered a blow to its popularity. A key factor contributing to the audience’s disenchantment was the departure of the show’s lead actor, Henry Cavill.
The actor’s exit has incited a wave of disappointment, leading many fans to wish for the series’ discontinuation. However, Netflix, in an unexpected move, announced the show’s renewal for a fifth season.
Unveiling the Future of ‘The Witcher’
This somewhat disheartening revelation was delivered by Sophie Holland, the series’ casting director, during an interview with Deadline magazine. Holland confirmed the impending commencement of filming for Season 4 and made a surprising mention of a fifth season
Holland revealed Netflix’s ambitious plan to film Seasons 4 and 5 back-to-back. She said, “We are about to start filming season four with Liam Hemsworth and there will be a short interval, then we will go straight to season five.”
Fan Discontent Boils Over
The inaugural season of ‘The Witcher’ was launched to high acclaim in 2019, but a series of missteps has led to the show’s current predicament. Netflix’s decision to deviate from the series’ source material – the much-loved Witcher books – and imprint its narrative direction has led to viewer frustration.
The situation worsened with the departure of Henry Cavill in October, followed by Netflix’s decision to not only renew the series for Season 4 but to recast the lead character, Geralt of Rivia.
The news that from Season 4 onwards, Liam Hemsworth would take up the mantle of the Witcher, was met with considerable fan displeasure.
Many fans petitioned for the series’ conclusion following the third season – Cavill’s last – but it appears that Netflix is committed to carrying on ‘The Witcher,’ come what may.
Only time will tell if this decision pays off and whether audiences will turn up for Season 4. As for Cavill, he invites fans to his final farewell as Geralt, scheduled for June 29 and July 27 on Netflix.
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