'The Witcher' Season 4: Finale Explained & What to Expect in Season 5

On October 30, Netflix finally released the fourth season of The Witcher. This chapter marks Liam Hemsworth's debut as Geralt following Henry Cavill's departure.

Here, we break down the key moments of the finale and what lies ahead for the characters.

How Was Geralt's New Appearance Explained in Season 4?

The creators cleverly integrated the actor change into the series' narrative. The prologue reveals that, a hundred years after the main events, Geralt's stories have become legends passed down by various storytellers.

For instance, the wandering bard Stribog offers his interpretation, depicting Geralt with a different appearance than we've seen before. Thus, the first three seasons tell one story, while the fourth tells a different story from a different storyteller.

Liam Hemsworth proved to be a worthy replacement. While Cavill impressed with his animalistic aggression and combat prowess, Hemsworth brought more emotional vulnerability and levity to the role.

What Is the Law of Surprise & Why Does Emhyr Want to Kill Geralt?

The Law of Surprise is an ancient custom in which a rescuer can ask the person they rescued for something unexpected.

After Geralt lifted the curse on Emhyr, the grateful emperor exercised this right. The unwitting "gift" turned out to be Emhyr's unborn daughter, Ciri.

Now, obsessed with consolidating his power, Emhyr plans to marry his daughter so their future son will inherit her Elder Blood.

In the Season 4 finale, he realizes that the fateful bond between Geralt and Ciri as a Child of Surprise will prevent him from reuniting with his daughter. The only way out is to kill the witcher. Emhyr attempts to do so by sending a mysterious monster after Geralt.

Why Didn't Bonhart Kill Ciri?

Leo Bonhart is a sadistic mercenary who dealt brutally with the Rats gang, but he spared Ciri – his reason wasn't just the higher reward for keeping the princess alive.

Bonhart was obsessed with finding worthy opponents and recognized Ciri's potential as a first-class warrior. He spared her life so that he could face her in combat in the future, believing that she lacked experience.

What Is the Connection Between Nimue and Ciri?

In flashbacks, we see a young Nimue studying the legends of Geralt. She believes that she is the Lady of the Lake, a pivotal figure in Ciri's destiny.

According to the books, Nimue will open the portal for Ciri during her travels through time and space. Her role will be central to the final season, which will be based on the novel The Lady of the Lake.

What to Wait For in 'The Witcher' Season 5?

Season 5 will feature the final battle for the fate of the Continent. Geralt and his companions will seek the druids' help in finding Ciri and will fight off a monster sent by Emhyr along the way.

Ciri will be captured by Bonhart, who will likely force her to participate in gladiatorial combat.

Meanwhile, Yennefer and her Lodge of Sorceresses will hunt Vilgefortz to prevent him from acquiring Ciri's power.

When Will 'The Witcher' Season 5 Be Released?

Filming for the final season wrapped up in October 2025. Since the team has begun editing, the premiere can be expected in 2026.