The franchise’s millions of fans were shocked by the news of Henry Cavill’s exit earlier this year, but The Witcher series still continues with a brand new prequel series hitting screens on Christmas Day. The cast of Netflix’s exciting new spin-off, Blood Origin, has since assured fans they won’t be disappointed when they spoke exclusively to Express.co.uk.
A brand new cast of rising stars and household names are hoping to put their own stamp on Netflix’s epic fantasy franchise in The Witcher: Blood Origin.
The untold story of The Continent features martial arts legend, Michelle Yeoh, as an elven warrior who leads a dangerous quest against an evil empire.
Although Henry’s rugged monster hunter Geralt of Rivia won’t be making an appearance, the series will explore how his race of mutant warriors came into being.
“Blood Origin is really interesting because our story starts 1200 years before the world of The Witcher as we know it,” cast member Lizzie Annis explained.
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She portrays an elven sage known as Zacaré, who’s joined on her journey by her Celestial Twin Syndril (played by Zach Wyatt).
Blood Origin introduces a number of new characters fans who have read Andrzej Sapkowski’s original novels won’t even recognise and aims to open up different pockets of the fantasy world that future series could explore.
“It does have its own identity and we’re exploring a different era of the Continent,” Lizzie added.
“We’re exploring a different moment in time, a different chapter.”
“In terms of Henry leaving the series, I think he’s done an absolutely phenomenal job and given so much to this world,” Lizzie said.
“All of The Witcher’s fans across the world are so grateful for that, and it will be really interesting to see what comes with the new chapter, and that remains to be seen for us as well.”
Lizzie’s co-star Huw Novelli, who portrays Brother Death, went on: “I hope that we can add to it. Add something interesting.
“Some people might agree with the storyline and some might not, but we’re offering an answer to some questions that are posed throughout The Witcher.”
“Obviously we hope people love it and hopefully we can add our own little bit to The Witcher history.”
And Meldof actress Francesca Mills said: “Just entering The Witcher universe, regardless of recent events, it’s such a big thing to join.
“And you don’t want to let the fans down because they’re so dedicated and brilliant. There’s so much to the world.”
Fans were certainly disappointed to hear the franchise had lost one of its biggest draws, but hopefully, Blood Origin can get The Witcher back on track after Henry’s departure.
The Witcher: Blood Origin is available to stream on Netflix.