Netflix's The Witcher returns for a fifth and final season: Everything you need to know

In April 2024, Netflix confirmed that The Witcher would return for a fifth and final season, filmed immediately after season four.

Henry Cavill’s departure as Geralt of Rivia marked a turning point for the series. The most visible change came with Liam Hemsworth stepping into the role. With season four receiving mixed reactions, fans are now eager to know when the next season will arrive—and whether Cavill might ever return.

As the show adapts the final novels by Andrzej Sapkowski, this concluding chapter promises to be its most pivotal. Viewers are watching closely to see how the series balances fidelity to the source material with honoring its legacy, all while navigating the impact of a major casting shift.

Is Henry Cavill returning to ‘The Witcher’?

Henry Cavill will not be returning as Geralt of Rivia. His exit after season three was permanent, according to showrunner Lauren Schmidt Hissrich, who cited creative differences and scheduling conflicts. Liam Hemsworth has taken over the role for the remainder of the series.

Cavill had long emphasized his commitment to faithful book adaptation, which reportedly clashed with the show’s creative direction. While proud of his time as Geralt, he wished the cast success moving forward. Hemsworth’s debut in season four marked a soft reboot, with the narrative shifting focus toward Ciri’s evolving destiny.

What is the law of surprise in ‘The Witcher’?

The Law of Surprise is one of the oldest traditions in The Witcher universe. It dictates that someone saved must offer a gift they do not yet know they possess. This custom binds Geralt to Ciri after he saves her father, Duny, unknowingly claiming her as his “child of surprise.”

This principle forms the backbone of their relationship in both the books and the series. Rooted in folklore about destiny and obligation, it creates a mystical bond that transcends adoption or guardianship. It drives Geralt’s protective instincts and shapes much of the emotional core of the saga.

Does Geralt die?

In Sapkowski’s The Lady of the Lake, Geralt’s fate is left ambiguous. Mortally wounded while stopping a mob, he is carried away by Yennefer and Ciri to an otherworldly realm. The show has not yet reached this point, but if Netflix follows the novels, viewers may see a similarly tragic yet mythic conclusion.

Season four ended with Geralt gravely injured but alive, setting the stage for his final arc in season five.

Does Ciri become a witcher?

In the books, Ciri never becomes a full witcher. Though she trains extensively at Kaer Morhen under Geralt and Vesemir, her powers stem from Elder Blood rather than mutations. Her combat skills rival any witcher, but she combines them with magical abilities unique to her lineage.

Netflix’s adaptation has hinted at her forging her own path. Freya Allan, who plays Ciri, revealed that season five will explore her “darkest transformation yet.” The show’s creative liberties may lead to a different interpretation of her destiny as both sorceress and warrior.

When is ‘The Witcher’ season five coming out?

Season five is expected to premiere in late 2025 or early 2026. It will be the series’ final installment, adapting Baptism of Fire, The Tower of the Swallow, and The Lady of the Lake. Filming began in summer 2025 across the U.K., Croatia, and Iceland.

Based on Netflix’s release patterns, fans can likely expect the first half of the season before the end of next year.

How do ‘The Witcher’ books end?

Sapkowski’s saga concludes with Geralt and Yennefer fatally wounded after rescuing Ciri. Using her ability to travel between worlds, Ciri transports them to a peaceful realm—possibly Avalon—where they may finally find rest. The ending is deliberately ambiguous, blending myth, sacrifice, and love.

Whether Netflix will remain faithful to this conclusion remains uncertain. The final season must balance honoring Sapkowski’s vision with delivering closure for millions of viewers.

Could Henry Cavill ever return to The Witcher?

Despite petitions and fan campaigns, there is no indication Cavill will return. He has moved on to other projects, including Amazon’s upcoming Warhammer 40,000 adaptation. Hemsworth has fully committed to Geralt, completing filming for season five with the production team’s full support.

While flashbacks or special appearances remain technically possible, they are unlikely. The series now faces the challenge of proving it can conclude successfully with Hemsworth leading Geralt’s final journey.

SUNDAY TRIBUNE