The Witcher

Geralt of Rivia is a mutated monster hunter who makes a living taking dangerous contracts in a world where human cruelty often outmatches the beasts he tracks. As kingdoms fracture and power shifts, Geralt crosses paths with Yennefer, a mage chasing influence, and Ciri, a princess fleeing a shattered homeland while carrying an unusual power. The series follows their individual struggles and the ways their choices intersect, with political scheming, personal loyalties, and supernatural threats shaping their paths. Geralt's strict code, stubborn solitude, and fragile alliances add weight to each confrontation, and small actions frequently have large consequences.

Released in 2019 on Netflix, the series was developed by Lauren Schmidt Hissrich with contributions from David French and Danusia Stok, adapting Andrzej Sapkowski's novels and short stories. The principal cast listed includes Liam Hemsworth as Geralt, Anya Chalotra as Yennefer, Freya Allan as Ciri, Joey Batey as Jaskier, and Eamon Farren as Cahir.

The show drew attention from genre award bodies and industry guilds, earning nominations and some wins mainly in technical and production categories, such as visual effects, makeup, and stunt work. Recognition tended to favor craftsmen and behind the scenes teams rather than mainstream film awards.

The Witcher sparked a robust fan community, fueling memes, fan art, cosplay, and online discussion. A song performed by the bard character became a viral moment and helped broaden the series' reach beyond readers of the original books. Iconic imagery, character costumes, and Jaskier's tune were widely shared and referenced across social media and conventions.

Audience scores and critical reaction leaned positive, reflected in a user vote average of 7.958/10 from 6,466 votes. Reviewers often praised worldbuilding, fight choreography, and several performances, while noting uneven pacing and debates over adaptation choices. Recurring themes include the moral cost of violence, ambiguity in right and wrong, the burdens of destiny, and how power reshapes identities and alliances.