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Can Liam Hemsworth Save “The Witcher” — or Has Netflix Broken the Spell?

Netflix’s “The Witcher” season 4 is causing major drama online — and not just because of Liam Hemsworth’s debut as Geralt of Rivia.

The long-awaited season has divided fans, with many calling it “unrecognizable” compared to previous installments. Since its release, social media and Reddit have exploded with heated debates, and one particular scene has become the center of controversy.

A New Geralt, A New Reaction

When Henry Cavill stepped down as Geralt, fans were skeptical about his replacement. Liam Hemsworth, known for The Hunger Games, faced a nearly impossible task — taking over one of Netflix’s most beloved fantasy roles.

While some critics have praised Hemsworth’s performance and the show’s refreshed tone, many viewers say it feels like “an entirely different series.” On Reddit, one viral comment summed up the sentiment:

“Halfway through episode 1 and something is off. Not just Liam. The tone, characters, dialogue… it feels like a totally different show.”

The Scene Everyone’s Talking About

The most heated backlash revolves around a disturbing scene involving Ciri (played by Freya Allan). During her journey with a group called The Rats, one member, Kayleigh, attempts to assault her. The moment is interrupted by Mistle — who later becomes Ciri’s love interest.

What shocked viewers wasn’t just the attempt, but how quickly the story shifted to a romantic scene right after. Many fans found the transition “uncomfortable” and “tone-deaf.”

One Reddit user wrote:

“When would anyone be in the mood after that? So bizarre!”

Another added:

“Cringed me out so bad I had to pause. I had to come here to vent.”

Freya Allan Responds

Addressing the controversy, Freya Allan explained her approach to the scene in an interview:

“I knew there was a lot of discussion about Ciri and Mistle’s relationship. It’s a controversial one online, and I felt it was important to keep that complexity. I didn’t want it to be perfect or fluffy.”

Her comments haven’t calmed all fans, but they shed light on the creative intent behind the scene — to show emotional chaos rather than comfort.

Critics Remain Split

The critical response mirrors the fan divide. Variety praised the new season, calling it “sharper and action-packed,” while The Guardian gave it only two stars, criticizing Hemsworth’s portrayal as “a bollard in a wig.”

Currently, The Witcher season 4 holds a 62% critic score and a 21% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes — a clear reflection of how divided the fanbase remains.

The Verdict

Whether you love or hate the new direction, one thing’s clear: The Witcher season 4 has everyone talking. The debate over Liam Hemsworth’s debut and that controversial Ciri scene proves the show still knows how to stir emotions.

And as Netflix gears up for season 5, fans are already wondering — can The Witcher find its magic again, or has the spell been broken for good?

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