“It mattered to me”: Henry Cavill Made it His Personal Mission to Introduce a Major Change for Geralt That Netflix May Have Just Omitted Out

Henry Cavill is an avid video game enthusiast and has spoken about his love for gaming several times. One of Cavill’s most iconic roles was as Geralt of Rivia in Netflix’s The Witcher, based on the popular novels and game series of the same name. Cavill played the role for three seasons before exiting the role.

Henry Cavill in a still from The Witcher

While Cavill eventually left the series over creative differences, the actor revealed how much the original games and its lore mean to him in an interview. Cavill revealed how he pushed to make one crucial change to the television adaptation that not only made the series better but also kept the lore intact. Here is the change Henry Cavill pushed for in The Witcher and why.

Henry Cavill Reveals Pushing For One Change in The Witcher That Improved the Series

Henry Cavill starred as Geralt of Rivia, a magically enhanced monster hunter in Netflix’s The Witcher. The series is based on the eponymous novels by Andrzej Sapkowski, which were also adapted into a series of games by CD Projekt Red.

Henry Cavill as Geralt of Rivia in The Witcher

During an interview with GQ in 2019, Cavill revealed that he was a fan of the source material, especially the games. Cavill stated that he wanted to stay true to the lore of the source material after he was cast in the titular role. As a result, he pushed to make an important change to the live-action television series.

“I really wanted to push that in there, because for me the audience must know he can do these things. It mattered to me, because it’s all part of being a Witcher.”

Cavill made the above statement explaining how he wanted the series to feature more of Geralt’s magical abilities, aka Signs, which were initially not going to feature in the show due to budgetary reasons. However, Cavill pushed for the change out of his love for The Witcher‘s lore.

The first season incorporates several signs from the games and books, including Aard, Axii, and Yrden. The magical aspect of the character helps fans co-relate Geralt with his video game and book counterparts. As a result, the change certainly worked to improve the series and Cavill’s decision to push for it reiterated his respect and appreciation for the source material.

Henry Cavill Talks Playing Video Games For Hours

Henry Cavill on Jimmy Kimmel Live

During the same interview, Cavill also talked about his love for video games and how it helped him escape the limelight. Cavill revealed that he is hyper-aware of the attention he receives when stepping out of his house. As a result, the Man of Steel star prefers to remain within the confines of his house and play video games.

“At home, I get to sit playing games for ridiculous amounts of hours and escape there, because going outside has the opposite effect.”

Cavill made the above statement explaining how video games were his prime source of escapism.

Cavill also shared his love for Warhammer and The Witcher games during the interview. Despite his dedication to the role of Geralt of Rivia, it was announced in October 2022 that Cavill would exit the Netflix series after the third season, which debuted in June 2023. Liam Hemsworth was announced as his replacement for season 4 and beyond.

The Witcher is streaming on Netflix.