5 Unforgivable Mistakes Netflix Made With ‘The Witcher’
The Witcher is a beloved universe for many. However, Netflix gave us the altered version of it with way too many creative liberties. Here are 5 mistakes that we can't forgive them for.
Adapting books we love into TV shows is always tricky. Netflix's The Witcher, based on Andrzej Sapkowski's novels, arrived with tons of excitement.
While many viewers enjoyed the show (particularly Henry Cavill as Geralt), longtime fans couldn't help but notice some questionable changes. Today, we're looking back at the most unreasonable changes Netflix made to the novels.
1. Netflix Changed the First Meeting of Geralt and Ciri
In Sapkowski's books, Geralt and Ciri first meet in the Brokilon forest. It's an atmospheric, meaningful scene that sets the stage for their relationship. Netflix, however, decided this wasn't dramatic enough and relocated their meeting to just, well... a forest.
When asked about why the decision was made, Lauren S. Hissrich took to X to write:
“We had to make hard choices, and we didn't get them right every time. But it's important to me that fans know those choices weren't made lightly. Ever.”
2. Geralt Never Tried to Use Ciri as Bait in ‘The Witcher’ Novels
Because of that weak first meeting, Geralt and Ciri relationship in the show feels way different than in the books. Their bond is supposed to be deep, not the awkward, forced connection Netflix gave us.
For example, in the show (Season 2, Episode 6), Geralt actually uses Ciri as monster bait. The book Geralt would never, ever do that.
3. Netflix's ‘The Witcher’ Ruined Yennefer's Character Too
Ciri's relationships are messed up all around. In the books, Yennefer never loses her magic, so that whole “sacrifice Ciri to get her powers back” storyline is completely made up. Book Yen would sooner die than harm Ciri.
4. Netflix Sidelined Triss and Created a Fake Yen Storyline
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In the Netflix show, Triss Merigold gets pushed to the background. This is weird because in the books she's known as the “Fourteenth of the Hill.” She was a hero from the Battle of Sodden who everyone thought died (but actually survived with bad injuries). Netflix swapped Triss with Yen, making an unnecessary storyline.
5. Netflix’s ‘The Witcher’ Killed Eskel for No Good Reason
Eskel might not be a main character in the books, but fans love him! He's supposed to be this thoughtful, kind witcher who's like a brother to Geralt and becomes Ciri's teacher. Book Eskel survives the whole saga (as he should!).
What did Netflix do? They turned him into a jerk who disrespects Vesemir and acts hostile toward Ciri. Then they just quickly killed him off. Why? No reason at all.
