Netflix’s ‘The Witcher’ has experienced a significant 67% drop in audience scores from season 1 to 3. Despite the release of the final three episodes of season 3, it appears that viewers’ opinions about the show’s trajectory and future remain largely unchanged.
Fans have shown a decrease in enthusiasm. However, this is not the typical scenario of “nerds hating the adaptation.” On the contrary, fans of both the books and games were highly fond of season 1, giving it an impressive 89%, significantly higher than the critics’ ratings. Notably, Henry Cavill’s portrayal of Geralt transformed from a subject of memes (criticizing his handsomeness and wig) to one of the most commendable casting choices, largely attributed to Cavill’s sincere passion for the source material.
Subsequently, the ratings began to decline. Season 2 received a disappointing 56% score from fans due to an increasing number of deviations from the original books. These changes were reportedly met with resistance from Henry Cavill himself. Prior to the premiere of season 3, it was officially announced that Cavill would depart from the show and his iconic role as Geralt. However, the series would not come to an end; instead, Hunger Games actor Liam Hemsworth would take on the role as his replacement.
Season 3 saw a further decline in audience scores, hitting a mere 22%, one of the lowest among major series on the service. Even the Resident Evil series on Netflix, which deviated from the source material, received a higher score at 26%.
IMDB ratings also demonstrate a decline in viewers’ satisfaction. While season 1 episodes enjoyed ratings above 8/10, season 3 episodes mostly fell below 6, with episode 7 scoring 4.5/10 and the finale, featuring Cavill’s departure, receiving a 5.5/10.
Part of this may be attributed to protest votes against Cavill’s departure, as fans express their dissatisfaction with the show’s direction. Although season 3 might not be objectively worse than season 2, the low scores reflect fan anger.
In season 1, ‘The Witcher’ had the potential to be Netflix’s original equivalent of ‘Game of Thrones,’ but mismanagement has led to the departure of an iconic character, setting the stage for potential backlash when the show returns for season 4 with Liam Hemsworth as the replacement.
Source: Forbes
