Apparently, there is more to just what people are saying as to what made Henry Cavill pass on Netflix’s The Witcher. Yesterday, Cavill’s news from The Continent was bittersweet for the fans. Some strongly speculate the decision is due to his impending involvement with the new plans on DC Studios as he returns as Superman. Now, avid followers of the Season 1-3 White Wolf determine a new reason why the actor decided to part ways with the franchise.
And the reason only makes him more endearing to The Witcher fans. If ever that were possible. Screenrant reports that the actor has been expressing his disappointment with regard to the development of The Witcher. As someone who is a fan of the video game, so much that he became a fan of the novels as well, relinquishing the role is somehow unbelievable. How could he give up the chance to be the character he likes so much?
What Actually Led Henry Cavill To Pass The Witcher On
Image: Netflix
Turns out, the reason he is leaving is the reason why he sought the part out in the first place. He is a fan of the source material. To him, Geralt of Rivia is someone he loves to portray according to how the video game and the books tell his story. During filming, this is evident as the production would also cite that the actor quotes and notes Andrzej Sapkowski’s writing in key scenes.
In the beginning, Cavill shared that he chanced upon the video game and his fascination grew as he experienced it in its entirety. As soon as he learned that Netflix is developing a series about The Witcher, he immediately sought to bag the role of Geralt. In Netflix’s Making The Witcher in 2020, he said:
My initial interest in The Witcher came from a chance experience with The Witcher games. Then I heard that Netflix were making a show. And so, I hunted down the opportunity to play Geralt.
When I had spoken to… during my first meeting with Lauren (Schmidt Hissrich – Showrunner), she had mentioned that it was based on the books.
The books, I absolutely loved. And they are an extraordinary source of a wonderful story.
As the seasons progressed, the production began to deviate from the source material. Something Cavill is not happy about. Back in November 2021, an interview with The Hollywood Reporter quotes Cavill saying he will stay with the production for seven seasons on the condition that:
…as long as we can keep telling great stories which honor [author Andrzej] Sapkowski’s work.
What Actually Led Henry Cavill To Pass The Witcher On
Image: Netflix
Needless to say, this condition is something the production that Lauren Schmidt-Hissrich leads did not adhere to. As early as the conclusion of the second season, signs of creative changes and liberties are evident in the story. The Witcher introduced characters and plots which are not in the books. This clearly became points of creative differences between Cavill and the production. Understandably, the actor decided to pursue other opportunities.
During this growing disappointment with the production, Cavill then landed the chance to return as Superman among other pursuits. Hence, his decision solidified as he posted in his official facebook account.
Many fans have said that they are only watching the series because of Henry Cavill. But they are also going to give the new White Wolf, Liam Hemsworth, a chance. However, with this new piece of the puzzle, more and more the fans are convinced that they are about to see some further heartbreaks of disappointment down the Continent’s road.
