Radio Times
type: channel
link: https://www.radiotimes.com
date: 2025-12-07T08:01:05.000Z
update period: hourly
update frequency: 1
update base: 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00
items: Percy Jackson season 2 stars reassure fans about book changes - but admit they’re still “nervous”
items: Game of Thrones' new spin-off series gets final epic trailer with Targaryen chaos - as its second season gets major update
items: Good Omens' Michael Sheen teases how fans will react to upcoming finale and argues it "should have been 6 episodes"
items: The Mighty Nein release schedule: When are new episodes out on Prime Video?
items: New Harry Potter TV series star reveals reaction to letter sent from Daniel Radcliffe and why he had to keep his cool
items: James Bond icon confirmed for major role in Wednesday season 3 – debunking Lady Gaga theory
items: Joanna Lumley dishes on Ghost Story for Christmas: "I'm not tremendous on gore but I do love frightening stories"
items: It: Welcome to Derry fans left stunned by "expertly handled", game-changing episode 5 reveal
items: Hazbin Hotel season 3 release date speculation and latest news
items: Game of Thrones spin-offs House of the Dragon and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms get futures confirmed by HBO
items: Harry Potter icon Daniel Radcliffe reveals emotional reaction and letter he penned to new TV series star
items: Hazbin Hotel season 2 ending explained: Does Vox's plan succeed?
items: Hazbin Hotel season 2 release schedule: When are episodes 7 and 8 out?
items: Meet the cast of Mighty Nein: Every Critical Role character explained
items: Who is Dr Kay in Stranger Things season 5? Linda Hamilton character explained
items: How anime has led the way in the battle against climate change
items: The Mighty Nein review: Critical Role level up with magical new adventure
items: It: Welcome to Derry risks ruining Pennywise for good with one fatal mistake
items: The Wheel of Time star Rosamund Pike speaks out on show's cancellation and reveals the chances of it ever returning
items: Record of Ragnarok season 3's release date finally confirmed after two-year wait since season 2
items: IT: Welcome to Derry character guide – their links to the Stephen King universe explained
items: Major Harry Potter TV series format rumour debunked as filming continues
items: The Witcher season 5 release date speculation and latest news
items: The Witcher season 4's Liam Hemsworth recast makes complete sense for one key reason
items: The Witcher season 4 ending explained: Every twist broken down by cast
items: What does Emhyr want with Ciri in The Witcher season 4? White Flame’s plan explained
items: The Witcher season 4 review: Liam Hemsworth's Geralt falls flat as Netflix flagship fantasy loses its magic
items: Who is Regis in The Witcher season 4? Laurence Fishburne character explained
items: Why was Vesemir recast in The Witcher season 4? Kim Bodnia exit explained
items: Why did Henry Cavill leave The Witcher? Liam Hemsworth recast explained

Percy Jackson season 2 stars reassure fans about book changes - but admit they’re still “nervous”
type: item
date: 2025-12-07T08:00:34.000Z
creator: Frances Taylor
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Exclusive
subject: News
description: Camp Half-Blood awaits!
encoded: The stars of Percy Jackson and the Olympians have made sure to reassure fans about the changes made from the books for season 2. The upcoming season will see Percy sail to the Sea of Monsters to rescue his friend Grover and save Camp Half-Blood, and is based on the second beloved novel in Rick Riordan's fantasy series. It's been established that there are a few more changes this time round compared to season 1, however, actors Dior Goodjohn (who plays Clarisse La Rue, the daughter of Ares) and Daniel Diemer (who plays Tyson, Percy's cyclops half-brother), have assured fans that they have nothing to worry about. Goodjohn exclusively told Radio Times: "I think [fans will be] very, very pleased. You always get a little bit nervous, at least I do when I see a change just because I know how much these books are the fans' baby, they're the fans' parent, they're the fans' son, they're everything. "So you get nervous like, 'Oh, I wonder how they're going to respond?' But then you continue to read and you're like, It's executed so phenomenally. I think when the fans that have read the book see it, they'll just be so pleasantly surprised." Diemer added: "Even if things are changing, the heart of the books and the heart of the characters, that remains the same. I think that's the most important part. "It doesn't feel like they're trying to make something that's their own. It all has to do with putting together an entire show. But they're trying to keep the heart and soul of Percy Jackson very, very much alive throughout. I think if that's the priority for the fans, then they're going to be very, very happy." The author of the series, Rick Riordan echoed this during a chat with Radio Times, saying: "I think we were fairly confident that most of the tweaks that we had done would be well received. We had many, many conversations about that. "And I will say this, I think everyone on the team is very mindful of the legacy of the books and the audience and what they're expecting. So…

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Game of Thrones' new spin-off series gets final epic trailer with Targaryen chaos - as its second season gets major update
type: item
date: 2025-12-05T11:28:22.000Z
creator: Molly Moss
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: HBO Max
subject: News
subject: NOW
subject: On demand
subject: Sky
description: Our return to Westeros is fast approaching.
encoded: Sky has unveiled the final trailer for A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms ahead of the series' premiere. The six-part series, which is based on George RR Martin's popular trio of Dunk and Egg novellas and will serve as a prequel to Game of Thrones, will be released on Sky and NOW on 19th January 2026, with episodes airing weekly. Set 100 years before Game of Thrones, and 72 years after House of the Dragon, the story will take a view of Westeros from the ground up, following Dunk and his resourceful squire “Egg”, who is actually the young Aegon V Targaryen, as they journey through the Seven Kingdoms. The footage shows the lowly hedge knight arriving in the small town of Ashford Meadow in the middle of the Reach in Westeros, where he attempts to earn some money by entering a tourney as a knight - only to be mocked by those around him - and appears to have a lighter tone than Game of Thrones. The trailer also gives fans a first look at the series’ take on the Targaryens, and they’re certainly not being put on the pedestal we're used to. "If I can call myself a champion, some great house might take me into its service, perhaps even house Targayren", Dunk says, before Raymun (Shaun Thomas) warns him that Targaryens are "incestuous aliens" and "tyrants". Watch the trailer for yourself below: View oEmbed on the source website The release of the trailer comes as A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms gears up to start shooting its second season. Showrunner Ira Parker announced the news at HBO Max's presentation in London on Wednesday (3rd December), revealing that season 2 is set to begin production next week in Belfast, Ireland. The second season is expected to premiere in 2027. Parker previously revealed that the Game of Thrones spin-off will break from franchise tradition in a big way. Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, Parker revealed the new series won’t feature the grand title sequence that was present in both Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon. Talking about how this decisio…

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Good Omens' Michael Sheen teases how fans will react to upcoming finale and argues it "should have been 6 episodes"
type: item
date: 2025-12-03T11:25:00.000Z
creator: Louise Griffin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Amazon Prime Video
subject: News
description: "Brilliantly directed, beautiful performances, fantastic new looks, incredible work all round."
encoded: Good Omens fans have been patiently waiting for some kind of update on season 3, AKA the finale episode, for months – and, now, star Michael Sheen has delivered! The Aziraphale actor revealed that a screening of the finale took place this week, admitting that he "laughed and cried" at the "beautiful" ending to the story. Responding to a fan who said that a "little bird was singing" about a screening that had happened, Sheen wrote on X: "So this is a big bird saying - we had a screening last night. I laughed and I cried." He added: "There’ll be bits you absolutely love and there’ll be things you’ll argue about of course. It should have been 6 episodes but it’s not. Thank God for what it is. Brilliantly directed, beautiful performances, fantastic new looks, incredible work all round. And there’s nightingales." The 90-minute finale episode will wrap up the story of Sheen's angel Aziraphale and David Tennant's demon Crowley, who decide to team up to prevent the Apocalypse. Last season saw the pair's relationship develop into a romantic connection, with the two of them sharing a kiss – and fans are desperate to see how things pan out. View oEmbed on the source website As Sheen mentions, Good Omens season 3 was originally planned to be six episodes long, but was shortened to one 90-minute finale last year, with Neil Gaiman, co-author of Good Omens, exiting the TV series after he was accused of sexual assault, which he has strongly denied. He contributed to writing the Good Omens finale but he did not work on the production and his production company Blank Corporation was not involved. A total of nine women have spoken out against the writer, with their accusations being detailed in a Vulture article published in January 2025, and in a Tortoise Media podcast released in July 2024. Allegations included claims that Gaiman engaged them in "rough" sex and BDSM without their consent. The novelist has firmly denied any non-consensual or illegal conduct in a statement. He said: "…

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The Mighty Nein release schedule: When are new episodes out on Prime Video?
type: item
date: 2025-12-02T16:40:12.000Z
creator: Nicola Austin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
description: Critical Role's new adventure is here!
encoded: It’s time to grab your pink lollipop and Uk'otoa card game as the long-awaited adaptation of Critical Role’s second role-playing campaign, The Mighty Nein, has finally landed! First announced back in January 2023, the series follows the beloved ragtag band of fugitives and misfits on their magical adventures in the realm of Wildemount, with the threat of war looming over the powerful reality-shaping arcana relic known as "the Beacon". But what's next for the gang? Here's everything you need to know about when episode 4 is released. How many episodes of The Mighty Nein are there? There are eight episodes in total of The Mighty Nein season 1, released across November and December. This marks a much shorter run of episodes in comparison to Critical Role’s first animated series, The Legend of Vox Machina, which consisted of 12 episodes across the three seasons. However, the episode runtimes are a lot longer, ranging from 42 to 48 minutes in length compared to TLOVM’s 22-minute episodes. Star and CEO of Critical Role Productions Travis Willingham recently explained to fans at GalaxyCon San Jose 2025 that this was due to feedback about the pacing in TLOVM. “We were trying to cram so much stuff into these twelve-episode seasons,” Willingham explained, “and because of that, a lot of the feedback that we got was like, 'Man, the pace is so fast. I wish it would just take a breath.' “And we feel the same way. But we're also trying to accordion so much stuff into a season. We did the math one time and it was somewhere between uh squishing 28 to 32 hours [of gameplay] down into twelve, 22-minute episodes per season. Which is crazy! It's almost impossible.” “But going 44-minutes meant we have a little bit more road, a little more runway” he continued, “each season has more time total to be able to tell those stories. And it was important to us to start from an origin perspective for Mighty Nein” The Mighty Nein release schedule: When are new episodes released? Critical Role fans …

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New Harry Potter TV series star reveals reaction to letter sent from Daniel Radcliffe and why he had to keep his cool
type: item
date: 2025-12-01T15:48:28.000Z
creator: James Hibbs
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: News
description: McLaughlin said he was "going mad" when he received the letter from Radcliffe.
encoded: After Daniel Radcliffe explained that he sent a letter to the star of the new Harry Potter TV series Dominic McLaughlin, the young actor himself has revealed how he reacted to receiving it. McLaughlin, who will be playing Harry in the new adaptation of JK Rowling's books, was appearing on Saturday Mash-Up! Live, when he was asked about Radcliffe's letter. He said: "Oh yeah, I got a letter from the man himself, Daniel Radcliffe. It was insane. I was on the train back up to Glasgow, because we were going home, and my dad just tapped me on the train and just gave me this letter. "I read it and then I got to the bottom, and it said, 'Dan R'. I was going mad, but I had to keep it cool. I was on the train." Speaking on Good Morning America last month, Radcliffe said: "I wrote to Dominic and sent him a letter, and he sent me a very sweet note back. "I don’t want to be a spectre in the life of these children, but I just wanted to write to him to say, ‘I hope you have the best time, and an even better time than I did – I had a great time, but I hope you have an even better time.' "I just see these pictures of him and the other kids, and I just want to hug them. They just seem so young. I do look at them and say, ‘Oh, it’s crazy I was doing that at that age.’ But it’s also incredibly sweet, and I hope they’re having a great time." McLaughlin will lead the cast of the series which will also star the likes of John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid. Meanwhile, one actor who previously appeared in the film series will be reprising his role, with Warwick Davis returning to play Filius Flitwick. Harry Potter author JK Rowling has faced backlash in some quarters due to her views on transgender rights. In 2020, she published a lengthy statement detailing her stance on sex and gender debates – the essay was criticised and disputed by LGBTQ+ charities including Stonewall. Rowling has also shared her views on social media, includ…

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James Bond icon confirmed for major role in Wednesday season 3 – debunking Lady Gaga theory
type: item
date: 2025-11-26T11:05:38.000Z
creator: David Craig
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Netflix
subject: News
subject: On demand
description: A familiar Tim Burton collaborator is joining the Netflix series.
encoded: Wednesday season 3 has found its Aunt Ophelia – and it isn't Lady Gaga, as some fans had predicted. The character was briefly glimpsed at the end of the recent second chapter, but her face was never shown, leaving fans to speculate as to who might embody the long-foreshadowed role. One leading theory was that Gaga's character – Nevermore teacher Rosaline Rotwood – might have been revealed as Ophelia in disguise all along, but this has been debunked by a major new addition to the Wednesday cast. We now know that Casino Royale star Eva Green will play Aunt Ophelia in season 3, with the French actor telling Tudum that she "can't wait to bring my own touch of cuckoo-ness to the Addams family". The casting isn't a total surprise given that Green has a long history of collaboration with Wednesday director and executive producer Tim Burton, dating back to 2012's gothic comedy Dark Shadows. They two would later reunite on Burton's adaptation of Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children, and most recently on Disney's live-action Dumbo remake, which hit cinemas back in 2019. In a statement, Wednesday co-creators and showrunners Al Gough and Miles Millar said: "Eva Green has always brought an exhilarating, singular presence to the screen – elegant, haunting, and beautifully unpredictable. "Those qualities make her the perfect choice for Aunt Ophelia. We’re excited to see how she transforms the role and expands Wednesday’s world." Ophelia is the estranged sister of Morticia Addams (played by Catherine Zeta-Jones), who we have briefly seen locked up in the spooky home of Grandmama Hester (Joanna Lumley) scrawling three menacing words: "Wednesday must die." "The re-emergence of Ophelia is going to hit this family like a bomb," Gough teased (via Tudum). "It was always the plan to give viewers a glimpse of her at the end of the season in a way that they weren't expecting, and then that's a driver into season 3." Further casting for season 3 will be announced in due course, but Or…

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Joanna Lumley dishes on Ghost Story for Christmas: "I'm not tremendous on gore but I do love frightening stories"
type: item
date: 2025-11-25T11:10:23.000Z
creator: Gareth McLean
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: BBC
subject: Christmas
subject: Interview
subject: Magazine
description: The Ab Fab and Amandaland star dishes on ghosts, ghouls, and gore.
encoded: This article first appeared in Radio Times magazine. The day Radio Times visited the set of the Ghost Story for Christmas, The Room in the Tower, Dame Joanna Lumley was filming a pivotal scene, unrecognisable under impressive prosthetics. It is only between takes that her trademark plummy timbre confirmed that, yes, it was her under the make-up. “I do like a scary story. I’m not tremendous on gore but I do love frightening stories,” she enthuses afterwards. This is probably just as well, given her acquaintance with the genre. In the 1973 Hammer horror The Satanic Rites of Dracula, where Christopher Lee’s titular Transylvanian plotted to exterminate humanity, Lumley played Jessica Van Helsing, the often-screaming object of the count’s affections. This year, she appeared in Netflix’s Addams Family reboot Wednesday as Morticia’s mother, Hester. And in between, there was also the slightly terrifying Patsy Stone in Absolutely Fabulous. “She can’t be killed,” Lumley says, merrily. “She lives off air and alcohol and smoke and drugs.” To that oeuvre, she now adds Mark Gatiss’ adaptation of the EF Benson story for what is the Sherlock writer’s eighth chilling tale for Yuletide. In it, Tobias Menzies plays a man haunted by a recurring dream of being invited to stay in a house that hides an unseen terror. Lumley plays its sinister mistress. It is The New Avengers and Amandaland star as you’ve never seen her before. I ask the most obvious question: does she believe in ghosts? “I do believe that there are ghosts. We know what happens to our bodies – to bones, to dust, then gone – but I can’t believe that the rest of it, the soul or the mind or the spark, just goes too. It goes somewhere…” She also believes in God – or something bigger than us at least. “I adore classical music and I’m so lucky to be married to a musician [conductor Stephen Barlow] because I learn from him all the time, and I do believe that there is such a thing as ‘the divine spark’.” She carries on with enthus…

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It: Welcome to Derry fans left stunned by "expertly handled", game-changing episode 5 reveal
type: item
date: 2025-11-24T10:23:31.000Z
creator: Louise Griffin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: News
subject: NOW
subject: Sky
description: He's finally here!
encoded: *Warning: Major spoilers ahead for It: Welcome to Derry episode 5.* The moment we've all been waiting for is finally here, as Bill Skarsgård's Pennywise made his long awaited arrival into It: Welcome to Derry – and it did not disappoint. The terrifying creature has appeared in various other forms throughout the series, which is based on the Stephen King novel, manifesting as the children of Derry's worst nightmares, but finally took his Dancing Clown form in episode 5. Following the disappearance of Matty, our heroes have been haunted by horrors, but in the latest episode, they find their friend alive – or, so it seems. The group declare they want to stage a rescue for the other children held hostage by Pennywise, so Matty reluctantly leads them into the sewers – where it's revealed that Pennywise has been posing as the child all along. View oEmbed on the source website It was a big risk for the showrunners to hold back Skarsgård for this long, but the big reveal has been well worth the wait, as the Pennywise we know and hate finally puts in an appearance to terrorise the children of Derry face-to-face. Fans have had their say on the episode, with one posting on X: "It took five episodes, but the buildup and reveal of Pennywise was expertly handled. Again, I applaud the show's restraint in not plastering him everywhere, proving Welcome to Derry can stand on its own without leaning on Pennywise. #ITWelcomeToDerry" Another said the episode was amazing and "just the beginning", while one more said that the reveal was "chefs kiss" as the "show just keeps getting better and better". Another fan said: "It: Welcome to Derry has done a phenomenal job of building week by week to get to the return of everyone’s favourite dancing clown and they did not disappoint… PENNYWISE IS BACK!!" "Pennywise HAS ARRIVED! WOW. That’s how you make an entrance! This clown isn’t for kids, it will play with your fears & then eat you up! I love #WelcometoDerry!," one more added. Already, our her…

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Hazbin Hotel season 3 release date speculation and latest news
type: item
date: 2025-11-23T11:54:51.000Z
creator: Nicola Austin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Amazon Prime Video
description: Everything we know so far about Hazbin Hotel season 3 – from release date speculation and returning cast to plot teasers from creator Vivienne Medrano.
encoded: Following the climactic two-part season 2 finale, fans of the hit adult animated musical comedy Hazbin Hotel are already looking to book their next stay in the Hellaverse. Fortunately, the series has already been renewed for two more seasons – and thanks to the reveal from Vox actor Christian Borle at GalaxyCon New Orleans, we know that the cast has finished recording the third instalment, with recording already under way for the fourth. A24 and Prime Video confirmed that Hazbin Hotel seasons 3 and 4 were greenlit back in July 2024, with creator Vivienne Medrano announcing the news during the Amazon Studios animation panel at San Diego Comic-Con 2024. Hazbin Hotel season 3 will see Erika Henningsen return as Charlie Morningstar, while Stephanie Beatriz will also be back as Vaggie. Series creator Vivienne Medrano has also confirmed that Jeremy Jordan will return as Lucifer, who is Charlie's father. So, without further ado, here’s what we know so far about Hazbin Hotel season 3. Hazbin Hotel season 3 release date speculation Fans had to wait for 1 year and 8 months to pass between the finale of Hazbin Hotel season 1 and the premiere of season 2. But with recording already complete for the third season, fans hadn't been expecting to weather another huge gap between seasons. However, when asked recently about the season 3 timeline, Vivienne Medrano gave a disappointing update. In an interview with Collider, she said: “I would say [it will be] a similar wait for Season 3…but less of a wait for Season 4 because they were greenlit together.” Based on this update, season 3 will most likely debut in the summer of 2027. Hazbin Hotel season 3 cast Hazbin Hotel season 3 will once again star Erika Henningsen as Charlie Morningstar, the founder and manager of the titular rehabilitation establishment, alongside Stephanie Beatriz as her girlfriend Vaggie. The third season will also feature the highly anticipated return of Jeremy Jordan as Charlie’s father, Lucifer, as confirmed by …

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Game of Thrones spin-offs House of the Dragon and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms get futures confirmed by HBO
type: item
date: 2025-11-20T16:39:40.000Z
creator: Louise Griffin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: News
subject: NOW
description: Westeros awaits!
encoded: Get ready to return to Westeros once again, because HBO has confirmed that two Game of Thrones spin-offs will be returning for another season. HBO Chairman and CEO Casey Bloys has officially announced that House of the Dragon has been renewed for season 4, while A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms has been renewed for season 2, before it's even premiered. Bloys stopped short of confirming whether or not season 4 will be the final instalment for Thrones prequel House of the Dragon, explaining that decision is down to showrunner Ryan Condal (who has previously said he plans for the show to end with season 4). “For all of [our] shows, we generally try to leave it to the creators to make that decision. We’ll work with them. Sometimes, people will work through the season to feel like, ‘Does it feel like a natural end? Does it not?’ So, I don’t have updates for you on any of that. But when we do, I’ll let you know," Bloys explained. Starring Emma D'Arcy, Olivia Cooke and Matt Smith, House of the Dragon follows the Targaryen dynasty, about 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones. Season 3 recently wrapped filming, and is set for release in summer 2026. Meanwhile, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, which looks set to be a lighter offering from the world of Westeros if the recent trailer is anything to go by, is set a little later – about 100 years before Game Of Thrones – and follows the adventures of hedge knight Ser Duncan the Tall (Peter Claffey) and his squire Aegon Targaryen (Dexter Sol Ansell). It seems Game of Thrones author George RR Martin is a little more on board with how A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms has been adapted, following his complaints about House of the Dragon. He previously said on his blog that the spin-off is “as faithful an adaptation as a reasonable man could hope for". "I’ve seen all six episodes now (the last two in rough cuts, admittedly), and I loved them," he wrote. "Dunk and Egg have always been favourites of mine, and the actors we found to p…

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Harry Potter icon Daniel Radcliffe reveals emotional reaction and letter he penned to new TV series star
type: item
date: 2025-11-19T10:56:43.000Z
creator: Molly Moss
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: News
description: "I do look at them and say, 'Oh, it's crazy I was doing that at that age.'"
encoded: Daniel Radcliffe has revealed that he wrote a letter to 11-year-old Dominic McLaughlin, who will lead HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter TV adaptation. In an interview on Good Morning America, Radcliffe – who played Harry Potter across eight films – explained that he knew some of the people working on the new production so he was able to reach out. "I wrote to Dominic and sent him a letter, and he sent me a very sweet note back," the actor said. "I don’t want to be a spectre in the life of these children, but I just wanted to write to him to say, ‘I hope you have the best time, and an even better time than I did – I had a great time, but I hope you have an even better time.'" The actor concluded: "I just see these pictures of him and the other kids, and I just want to hug them. They just seem so young. I do look at them and say, ‘Oh, it’s crazy I was doing that at that age.’ But it’s also incredibly sweet, and I hope they’re having a great time.” View oEmbed on the source website Radcliffe and Rupert Grint were also 11 when he was cast in the first movie, 2001’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, while Emma Watson was 10. In 2023, HBO announced that all seven novels in JK Rowling's hugely popular children's book series were set to be adapted into a new TV show. The three lead child stars were confirmed in May 2025, with Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stout set to star as Harry, Hermione and Ron. Other actors on the show will include John Lithgow as Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Hogwarts headmistress Professor McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Professor Snape, Paul Whitehouse as Hogwarts caretaker Argus Filch and Nick Frost as gamekeeper and Care of Magical Creatures professor Hagrid. Harry Potter author JK Rowling has faced backlash in some quarters due to her views on transgender rights. In 2020, she published a lengthy statement detailing her stance on sex and gender debates – the essay was criticised and disputed by LGBTQ+ ch…

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Hazbin Hotel season 2 ending explained: Does Vox's plan succeed?
type: item
date: 2025-11-19T10:42:09.000Z
creator: Emma Flint
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Amazon Prime Video
subject: On demand
description: Vox’s plan to take over Heaven nears completion, but does he succeed?
encoded: **Warning: Contains spoilers for the Hazbin Hotel season 2 finale.** The tempestuous conclusion to Hazbin Hotel season 2 is upon us. Although Heaven is no longer a threat, Vox has whipped Hell up into a frenzy. Determined to become a god, he’ll seemingly stop at nothing to achieve his goals. With Lucifer trapped inside the very weapon Vox manipulated Carmilla Carmine into building, victory is within his grasp. Using Lucifier as his power source, Vox blows the pearly gates off their hinges and leaves heaven exposed. Charlie was already feeling the pressure, but with Alastor captured and Angel Dust missing, Hell’s princess is on the back foot trying to stop a holy war. But all isn’t lost, for the hotel’s ragtag gaggle of guests has a plan: to broadcast proof of Sir Pentious in Heaven. Once sinners see the truth, surely they’ll stop supporting Vox? Heaven is more than ready to assist, with Sera still desperate to atone for her past mistakes. Unfortunately, to create a broadcast link, the gang needs to break into V Tower. As if that wasn’t already dangerous enough, they also need to rescue Angel while they’re inside the belly of the beast. In short, this last stand against Vox is a monumental undertaking. Without further ado, it’s time to delve into the nitty gritty details of the Hazbin Hotel season finale. Hazbin Hotel season 2 ending explained: Does Vox take over heaven? Vox’s transformation into the foreboding antagonist of season 2 has been impressive. As this season has progressed, his obsessive need for power has continuously secured him victory over Charlie. But as his ambitions have grown, so too have the risks, and in the final episode, hubris comes back to bite Vox. Unable to resist being the strongest sinner in all of hell, Vox inadvertently helps free Alastor, with the Radio Demon now having a score to settle with his captor. As much as Vox wants to rule over Hell and Heaven, he really wants to beat Alastor, which ends up being his downfall. Overtaken by hi…

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Hazbin Hotel season 2 release schedule: When are episodes 7 and 8 out?
type: item
date: 2025-11-19T09:54:48.000Z
creator: David Craig
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Amazon Prime Video
subject: Contains Trailer
subject: On demand
description: We've reached the end of another chapter in the chaotic series!
encoded: Hazbin Hotel season 2 has concluded its run on Prime Video, so it's time to get stuck into the musical comedy if you've been holding out for a binge watch. The series follows Charlie Morningstar (Erika Henningsen), the princess of Hell, after she opens a rehabilitative hotel intended to help move souls onto heaven, while fixing an overcrowding issue down below. RadioTimes.com contributor Emma Flint said that Hazbin Hotel "hits its stride" in season 2, but expressed some disappointment about the rushed nature of the later episodes – and a lack of anticipation built up for the stories to come. All eyes now turn to Hazbin Hotel season 3, which is already confirmed, as fans speculate over where creator Vivienne Medrano could take her gleefully unhinged animated universe next. When is Hazbin Hotel season 2 finale out on Prime Video? Hazbin Hotel season 2 episode 8 – fittingly titled Curtain Call – is available to stream now on Prime Video. It was released, along with penultimate chapter Weapon of Mass Distraction, on Wednesday 19th November 2025. The season was released in four double bills. How many episodes are in Hazbin Hotel season 2? Hazbin Hotel season 2 is comprised of eight episodes in total, which have been released over a period of four weeks. Hazbin Hotel season 2 release schedule Hazbin Hotel season 2 was released fairly rapidly across four weeks, with two episodes dropping each Wednesday until mid-November. Here's an overview of the release schedule on Prime Video: Hazbin Hotel season 2 episode 1 – New Pentious – Wednesday 29th November 2025 (out now) Hazbin Hotel season 2 episode 2 – Storyteller – Wednesday 29th November 2025 (out now) Hazbin Hotel season 2 episode 3 – Hazbin Hotel: Behind Closed Doors – Wednesday 5th November 2025 (out now) Hazbin Hotel season 2 episode 4 – It's A Deal – Wednesday 5th November 2025 (out now) Hazbin Hotel season 2 episode 5 – Silenced – Wednesday 12th November 2025 (out now) Hazbin Hotel season 2 episode 6 – Scream Rain – W…

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Meet the cast of Mighty Nein: Every Critical Role character explained
type: item
date: 2025-11-19T06:00:44.000Z
creator: Nicola Austin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Amazon Prime Video
description: The second animated adventure from the "nerdy-ass voice actors'" role-playing campaign is upon us!
encoded: Critters can finally dive back into the expansive world of Exandria – albeit on the new continent of Wildemount – with the next animated adventure from the Critical Role gang, adapting the beloved second campaign, The Mighty Nein. With a new adventure comes a whole new raft of characters, factions and missions. The Mighty Nein is quite the different beast to The Legend of Vox Machina, with a war looming large on the continent and a greater focus on arcane magic and relics. The main voice cast are all back, along with a whole host of big-name guest stars, including Disney icons Ming-Na Wen and Auli'i Cravalho, Star Trek legend Jonathan Frakes, Dune: Prophecy star Mark Strong and a newer guest star at the Critical Role table, voice actor Robbie Daymond. But who are the new roster of characters who make up this ragtag band of misfits and fugitives? Who's in the cast of The Mighty Nein? Below is the main line-up for The Mighty Nein – the second animated series from the cast of Critical Role – which is now available to stream on Prime Video. Read on to find out more about the cast and characters. Laura Bailey as Jester Lavorre Taliesin Jaffe as Mollymauk Tealeaf Ashley Johnson as Yasha Nydoorin Matthew Mercer as Essek Thelyss Liam O'Brien as Caleb Widogast Marisha Ray as Beauregard Lionett Sam Riegel as Nott the Brave Travis Willingham as Fjord Stone Laura Bailey plays Jester Lavorre Who is Jester Lavorre? Fan favourite character Jester is a tiefling (with water genasi ancestry) cleric of the Traveler and a member of The Mighty Nein. Born and raised in the Lavish Chateau, she is delightfully chaotic, but her penchant for pranks soon gets her into trouble with a powerful politician Fearing for her daughter’s safety, Jester’s mother – the Ruby of the Sea – hires Fjord (Willingham) to help her escape from the city guards and travel to the Pillow Trove in Zadash. However, that’s trickier than it sounds, as she’s a blue tiefling with bright blue hair and wields a giant pink s…

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Who is Dr Kay in Stranger Things season 5? Linda Hamilton character explained
type: item
date: 2025-11-18T13:15:44.000Z
creator: Nicola Austin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Netflix
description: Everything we know about Linda Hamilton’s mysterious new character Dr Kay in Stranger Things season 5 – including plot details, cast info and what the Duffer Brothers have revealed so far.
encoded: Stranger Things has certainly had its fair share of iconic '80s guest stars across its four seasons. From The Goonies’ Sean Astin as fan-favourite character Bob Newby to A Nightmare on Elm Street’s Robert Englund and The Princess Bride’s Cary Elwes, the beloved Netflix show is set to continue the tradition with its latest instalment. Joining the cast for the fifth and final season is potentially its biggest guest star yet – as the series looks set to go out with a bang – with creators the Duffer Brothers managing to snag none other than sci-fi icon and Terminator star Linda Hamilton.. As we head back to Hawkins and the horrors of the Upside Down for the very last time, what can we expect from the shady-looking Dr Kay in Netflix’s beloved '80s inspired sci-fi adventure? Here's everything we know so far about Linda Hamilton’s mysterious Stranger Things character! Who is Dr Kay in Stranger Things season 5? Described as a new government agent leading the investigation into the Upside Down in Hawkins, Dr Kay appears to be stepping into a similar role to Dr Martin Brenner (Matthew Modine), following his death in the penultimate episode of season 4. With the town under military quarantine and the hunt for Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) intensifying, Dr Kay has been described as another key antagonist for Mike (Finn Wolfhard) and the party to contend with, as she investigates the increasingly chaotic events while the Upside Down bleeds into the real world. “She’s hyper-intelligent and intimidating,” Matt Duffer told Empire. “She’s a scientist but if she needs to, she can get into a fight and shoot a gun.” And judging by the season 5 trailer, she’ll certainly be joining the fight. Despite being billed as a major obstacle for the group, she appears to bolster their ranks in the battle with the show's big bad – Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower). As teased in the footage, there’s an intense action sequence for fans to look forward to, as an explosive battle rages between government off…

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How anime has led the way in the battle against climate change
type: item
date: 2025-11-18T12:00:12.000Z
creator: David Opie
subject: Anime
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Climate - Intentional focused content
subject: Comment
description: Tackling environmental topics is in the very DNA of the medium.
encoded: Storytelling naturally reflects the culture and climate it's produced in – yet few films and shows appear to be tackling the biggest threat to both. According to Climate.gov, 2024 was the warmest year since global records began in 1850 (by a wide margin) and the 10 warmest years on record have all occurred in the past decade. Floods and heatwaves are increasing as the climate crisis grows, yet Western takes on this issue remain few and far between, especially when it comes to children's fare where they could make the most impact. Since Ferngully left a lasting impression on millennials in the early '90s, not many animated films have continued where it left off. Just The Lorax and Pixar's Wall-E stand out as two notable exceptions when it comes to tackling environmental issues in animation. It's a different story in Japan, however. Anime has long incorporated themes of this nature, tapping into traditional Taoist and Shintoist beliefs that prioritise ecological harmony and respect for the natural world. The Godfather of Anime, Tezuka Osamu, did so as far back as the '60s with Kimba the White Lion, and more adult stories like the Black Jack manga, where an unlicensed surgeon used his money to fund environmental projects. It's Studio Ghibli that often comes to mind first, however. Even before the studio was named as such, co-founder Hayao Miyazaki wrote and directed Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, a post-apocalyptic saga where the key to surviving a polluted world came from understanding the resilience of nature and the interconnectedness of all living things. View oEmbed on the source website Plenty of other Miyazaki films continued this outlook further including Spirited Away, where the cleansing of a polluted river spirit is vital to the story and My Neighbor Totoro, which celebrates the beauty of rural life and preserving natural spaces. Aside from Nausicaä, however, it's Princess Mononoke which comes up most regularly in these conversations, thanks to the cent…

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The Mighty Nein review: Critical Role level up with magical new adventure
type: item
date: 2025-11-17T16:00:18.000Z
creator: Nicola Austin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Amazon Prime Video
subject: Review
description: The Wildemount adventures begin as Critical Roles expands its animated universe.
encoded: Critters can once again delve into the world of Exandria with the long-awaited adaptation of the nerdy-ass voice actors’ most viewed – and undoubtedly most beloved – live-action tabletop role-playing campaign, The Mighty Nein. The animated version of their second live-streamed games has long been on the wishlist of fans following the release of The Legend of Vox Machina, and it’s certainly been quite the wait since the show’s announcement back in January 2023. Spanning over 550 hours and six major story arcs across three and a half years, there’s plenty of source material for the Critical Role gang and Titmouse, Inc to sink their (mimic) teeth into, with at least two seasons on the way. The team has evidently taken on board viewer feedback about TLOVM’s rushed pacing, with the first season of The Mighty Nein starting from a session-zero perspective – laying the groundwork for this brand-new collection of complex characters. Set around 20 years after the events of The Legend of Vox Machina, The Mighty Nein unfolds on the continent of Wildemount, on the brink of war. Political tensions are at breaking point between the two powerful nations of the Dwendalian Empire and the Kryn Dynasty. Drawn together by a tragic event – and seemingly by circumstance – the “motley group of assholes" find themselves at the centre of a major play for power, as a powerful arcane relic known as The Beacon falls into dangerous hands. The group of fugitives and outcasts attempt to band together to expose the false flag that’s been set in motion, and in turn, help save the realm from all-out war. The adventuring party has seriously levelled up with a treasure trove of arcane magic – there are brand new spells, new powers and new feats this time round. Unlike their more stereotypical predecessors, this band of misfits consists of a more intriguing collection of classes and species. There’s the utterly chaotic Tiefling cleric Jester (Laura Bailey) and her travelling companion Fjord Stone (Travi…

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It: Welcome to Derry risks ruining Pennywise for good with one fatal mistake
type: item
date: 2025-11-17T08:00:43.000Z
creator: David Opie
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Comment
subject: HBO
subject: NOW
subject: Sky
description: Welcome to Derry dares to hold Pennywise back – only to reveal far too much.
encoded: Eddie who? Richie whatshisname? As strong as the cast were in Andy Muschietti's IT, Pennywise is always the first name that comes to mind when you think of his twofold adaptation. As such, it didn't take long for Bill Skarsgård's deranged clown to dance its way into our hearts and nightmares alike (while showing up occasionally in my therapy sessions too). It's safe to say then that if there's one thing we'd want to see more of in the prequel series Welcome To Derry, it's Pennywise, even if it was reduced to a weird gross baby puddle by the end of IT: Chapter Two. The show is set 27 years before the events of the first film, making it easy to bring Pennywise back in its full splendour. Yet for the first few episodes, Skarsgård doesn't show up at all. IT is there, of course. It's in every nook and cranny of Derry, its evil seeping into every brick and the mind of every resident. Stephen King's most recognisable antagonist even shows up to terrify a new batch of kids each week, but not in his most recognisable form. Instead, IT appears as various nightmares made flesh, from Lilly's pickled father to a baby-faced demon in the premiere. It would have been easy to simply rely on the iconography of Pennywise, maximising the show's scares by giving viewers what they came for. But what you want isn't always best for you. Muschietti and his team smartly recognised that in writing this show, choosing to hold back on revealing Pennywise in full until five episodes in. Risky? Yes, but this was actually the best way to reintroduce a once-terrifying character who audiences have grown somewhat desensitised to. How could you not after Pennywise was meme'd into oblivion back when the films first came out? Building on the tension that comes with waiting to see it, this idea that Pennywise could leap out at any moment, helped remind us how scary IT really is while erasing those dancing memes from our minds completely. It's unfortunate then that Welcome To Derry risks undoing all this,…

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The Wheel of Time star Rosamund Pike speaks out on show's cancellation and reveals the chances of it ever returning
type: item
date: 2025-11-13T10:20:23.000Z
creator: Louise Griffin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Amazon Prime Video
subject: News
description: The beloved fantasy show was cancelled earlier this year by Prime Video.
encoded: Fantasy fans are still mourning The Wheel of Time after its shock cancellation earlier this year, and now star Rosamund Pike has given her take on the reasons behind the decision. The fantasy series, based on the beloved novels by Robert Jordan, starred Pike as Moiraine Damodred, with the actress being an outspoken champion for the show. According to Deadline, Prime Video made the decision not to renew the series following "lengthy deliberations", with financial reasons reportedly being the primary decision maker. Reflecting on the cancellation, Pike admitted she agrees with fans that season 1 "wasn't good enough", with the series facing struggles amid the Covid-19 pandemic – but that, by season 3, "there was a really well-acted, well-written, cohesive, deep show that was attracting powerhouse actors to come and play supporting characters". Speculating about why the series was cancelled despite its passionate fanbase, she added to Collider: “I think we're possibly victims to the terrible churn factor of people wanting to show that ‘We've got a new show.’ It's all about what's new.” In the wake of the cancellation, showrunner Rafe Judkins called for another streamer to pick up the show. “In my dreams, another studio would be wise and pick it up," Pike said. "We have such an amazing team now. We have the ability to make a great final sequence of seasons for this show... We know what to do with these books now, so who knows? But I think we have to accept that it's over." After The Wheel of Time's cancellation, many members of the cast and crew spoke out about the disappointing news. View Green Video on the source website Meanwhile, fans created a petition calling for another streamer to pick up the show, which has now reached more than 227,000 signatures. The petition addresses Sony Pictures Television, Prime Video and other streaming services, and points to the show's strong critical and fan reception as well as reported viewing figures. It also praises the show's ded…

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Record of Ragnarok season 3's release date finally confirmed after two-year wait since season 2
type: item
date: 2025-11-11T13:00:10.000Z
creator: Molly Moss
subject: Anime
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Netflix
subject: News
subject: On demand
description: The fate of humanity will once again very soon rest in the hands of a chosen few!
encoded: After a two-year hiatus following the release of season 2, Record of Ragnarok season 3's release date has finally been unveiled. The third instalment of the anime, which is based on the manga by Shinya Umemura and Takumi Fukui and follows a fighting tournament that takes place between gods and historical figures, will debut on Netflix worldwide on 10th December 2025. The release date news was confirmed alongside a third official season 3 trailer giving fans a first look at some of the epic battles to come. The footage also showcases the new opening theme tune, Dead Or Alive, performed by Japanese rock band GLAY. You can watch the teaser for yourself below: View oEmbed on the source website If the box above is not showing, you may need to change your privacy settings. In the Radio Times site footer, click ‘Manage Privacy Settings’. Under ‘Site Vendors’, consent to ‘YouTube’, then press Save & Exit. As in previous seasons, the upcoming instalment will feature notable names including Nikola Tesla (voiced by Makoto Furukawa), King Leonidas (Hiroshi Shirokuma), Hades (Ryotaro Okiayu), Beelzebub (Daisuke Namikawa) and Nostradamus (Shun Horie). And as always, the historical figures will be pitted against each other in a 13-round mortal vs god death match. Whichever side achieves seven wins first gets to rule the world for 1,000 years. The third season was announced back in March, with Manga writer Shinya Umemura saying at the time: “I’m so grateful that the third season of the anime is being produced. This is all thanks to everyone’s support — thank you from the bottom of my heart. I can’t wait to see how that one move by Nikola Tesla appears on screen! I hope everyone will continue to watch Record of Ragnarok!” Story structure creator Takumi Fukui added: “Much time has passed since the explosive ending to the second season. Thanks to the support of our fans, the third season is finally here! "How will that fiery battle we depicted in the comic be recreated? How will certa…

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IT: Welcome to Derry character guide – their links to the Stephen King universe explained
type: item
date: 2025-11-11T11:35:25.000Z
creator: David Craig
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: NOW
subject: On demand
subject: Sky
description: Bill Skargård is back as Pennywise – with some new Derry residents to terrorise.
encoded: One of the world's most adapted authors is adding another notch to his score, with Stephen King's IT serving as the launchpad for chilling prequel series Welcome to Derry. Andy Muschietti, director of 2017's box office smash IT: Chapter One and its sequel, is back to lead this successor, which also sees Bill Skarsgård return to his acclaimed performance as Pennywise the Dancing Clown. Expanding on interludes from King's original novel, Welcome to Derry introduces us to a slew of new Derry residents as well as bringing back a couple of familiar names – including The Shining's own Dick Hallorann. Chris Chalk takes on the role originated by Scatman Crothers in Stanley Kubrick's 1980 adaptation, but this incarnation of the character is yet to grow into the wise and reassuring figure we meet there. If the horror series has piqued your attention, read on for an introduction to its key players as it continues its chilling run on Sky Atlantic and NOW. IT: Welcome to Derry cast: Full list of actors in Stephen King prequel Here's an overview of the main cast in IT: Welcome to Derry – read on for more detailed profiles on each character and the actor playing them, including where you might have seen them before. Bill Skarsgård as It aka Pennywise the Clown Taylour Paige as Charlotte Hanlon Jovan Adepo as Leroy Hanlon Blake Cameron James as Will Hanlon Chris Chalk as Dick Hallorann James Remar as General Shaw Stephen Rider as Hank Madeleine Stowe as TBC Rudy Mancuso as Captain Pauly Russo Clara Stack as Lilly Amanda Christine as Ronnie Mikkal Karim-Fidler as Teddy Bill Skarsgård as It aka Pennywise the Clown Who is Pennywise the Clown? Pennywise the Clown is a form often taken by the supernatural entity that terrorises the people of Derry. It is a shapeshifter, however, and has also appeared as other residents or monstrous beings, such as the giant spider seen at the end of It: Chapter Two. What else has Bill Skarsgård been in? Skarsgård has made a name for himself in the horro…

Major Harry Potter TV series format rumour debunked as filming continues
type: item
date: 2025-11-06T12:13:23.000Z
creator: Nicola Austin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: News
description: This is one myth that can be filed in the Rumours! wizarding newspaper.
encoded: With filming underway and casting announcements trickling in for the upcoming HBO Harry Potter TV series, it’s no surprise that plenty of rumours have been flying around faster than a golden snitch. With seven seasons planned for the HBO series – designed to introduce Harry Potter to a whole new generation – there’s certainly scope to include much more from the books that never made it to the big screen, along with creating a more faithful adaptation of the source material. For example, we already know that certain characters will finally be making their live-action debut in the wizarding world (Professor Binns, Peeves and Charlie Weasley are all set to appear). However, it seems that the latest hotly debated rumour among fans and the media has quickly been debunked; the series will not be deviating from the films with the addition of a narrator. Following recent casting announcements, including Richard Durden as Professor Cuthbert Binns, The Witcher and House of the Dragon-themed blog Redanian Intelligence reportedly claimed that Tom Turner, one of the latest cast additions, was set to be a series regular as the show’s narrator. Nevertheless, according to Deadline, British actor Turner – known for roles in Ready Player One, Cruella and Beauty and the Beast – won’t be taking on the mantle of narrator. This latest rumour rapidly gained traction across social media and Reddit, once again dividing the fanbase over a potential departure from the beloved big-screen adaptations. While some users were cautiously optimistic about the potential change in format, stating, "if done right it can be a real positive to the show", others were far less enthusiastic, with one fan commenting it was "yet another reason to completely avoid this series". With the line-up for Audible’s star-studded full-cast adaptation of JK Rowling’s Harry Potter books recently revealed – along with the first audiobook release – there may have been some crossed wires regarding narrators. In HBO's series…

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The Witcher season 5 release date speculation and latest news
type: item
date: 2025-11-02T10:34:40.000Z
creator: David Craig
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Netflix
subject: On demand
description: The final episodes have already been filmed, bringing Geralt's journey to an end.
encoded: While season 4 has only just arrived on Netflix, following the dramatic finale, many fans are already looking forward to news about The Witcher season 5. Although the series has been fraught with fuss about the recasting of Henry Cavill and various creative choices, the show remains one of the most popular fantasy series around, and was renewed for a fifth season before season 4 began shooting. For the moment, however, the next season will reportedly bring the series to a close, with lacklustre receptions for spin-offs Blood Origin, Nightmare of the Wolf and Sirens of the Deep failing to capture the same excitement. But as Liam Hemsworth dons Geralt's white locks once more alongside Freya Allan, Anya Chalotra and more, here's what we know so far about The Witcher season 5. The Witcher season 5 release date speculation The Witcher has been renewed for a fifth season and, in fact, it has already been filmed, but a specific release date for the final episodes is yet to be announced. Netflix confirmed The Witcher season 5 was in the works in April 2024, announcing that it would film back-to-back with the fourth and bring the fantasy drama to an end. Shooting on the fifth season wrapped in late September 2025, with the series now undergoing post-production, which could be an extended process due to the show's substantial visual effects. With that in mind, we probably wouldn't expect The Witcher season 5 to drop on Netflix until autumn/winter 2026. (But that would still be the most rapid turnaround that the series has seen to date.) The Witcher season 5 cast The Witcher season 5 will once again star Liam Hemsworth as Geralt of Rivia, alongside original stars Freya Allan (Ciri) and Anya Chalotra (Yennefer), in what could be their final appearances in these beloved roles. The show is confirmed to be coming to an end with the upcoming chapter, although we wouldn't rule out further spin-offs or animated specials in the future, which could potentially provide opportunities for…

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The Witcher season 4's Liam Hemsworth recast makes complete sense for one key reason
type: item
date: 2025-10-31T12:15:49.000Z
creator: David Opie
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Comment
subject: Netflix
description: Geralt's had quite the makeover in season 4.
encoded: The Witcher has fought all manner of monsters in his time, but four seasons in, the biggest threat to Geralt's existence might just be himself. Or at least, the new version of him that's been introduced in Netflix's latest season. Whatever your thoughts on The Witcher might be, fans and detractors alike usually agree that Henry Cavill has been pivotal to the show's success. Whether he was drawing his sword or drawing a bath, Cavill's take on Geralt felt intrinsic to the story being told. It's as if he was born to play The Witcher. So when Cavill suddenly left the show three seasons in, his exit understandably came as quite a shock. It was impossible for fans to imagine what The Witcher might look like without him, yet that's exactly what showrunner Lauren Schmidt-Hissrich was forced to do for the series to continue. Enter Liam Hemsworth, another statuesque bulk of a man who was asked to step in and take Cavill's place. Long before pics of him donning the wig surfaced online, fans were already quick to denounce Hemsworth as being unfit for the task at hand. These were big shoes to fill, after all. Never mind that Liam is 6cm taller than Henry. It didn't help that when trailers for season 4 did finally arrive, they included a scene where Hemsworth's Geralt rallies his friends by crying: "Let's f**king move." For fans still invested in the show, this felt like a betrayal of sorts, a sign that The Witcher had lost its way. "Geralt would never say such a thing," they claimed, with others criticising Hemsworth's delivery of the line as well. To be fair, Liam was going to be criticised regardless, no matter how good or bad he was in the role. Copy Cavill too closely and you're just a pale imitation of the real deal. Put your own stamp on the character and you risk losing Geralt's essence entirely. This was always going to be a lose-lose situation for Hemsworth, at least at the beginning when fans would be most resistant to change. Plus, it's not exactly easy to pull off a …

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The Witcher season 4 ending explained: Every twist broken down by cast
type: item
date: 2025-10-30T16:00:42.000Z
creator: Nicola Austin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Exclusive
subject: Netflix
subject: Video
description: Stars Liam Hemsworth, Anya Chalotra and Freya Allan break down that brutal finale. **CONTAINS SPOILERS FOR THE WITCHER SEASON 4**
encoded: *Warning: Full spoilers ahead for The Witcher season 4.* With brand new characters, ever expanding storylines and an escalating conflict amongst the nations, The Witcher season 4 is certainly a sprawling one. As the core trio are once again scattered across the Continent, each going on their own path, the final episode saw Ciri (Freya Allan) in a particularly sticky situation, captured by the infamous bounty hunter and Witcher killer, Leo Bonhart (Sharlto Copley). Just how will this impact the various factions searching for the lost lion cub of Cintra?! There’s plenty to unpack as we wait for the final chapter in Geralt (Liam Hemsworth), Yennefer (Anya Chalotra) and Ciri’s destiny-fuelled saga to unfold (thankfully, the fourth and fifth season were filmed consecutively, so there shouldn’t be too long to wait!). Here's everything you need to know about how season 4 ended – complete with a breakdown from the cast. Why did Geralt have such a weird reaction to being knighted? On their travels to visit the Druids of Caed Dhu, Geralt and his rag-tag company (aka the hansa), comprised of Jaskier (Joey Batey), Regis (Laurence Fishburne), Cahir (Eamon Farren) and Zoltan (Danny Woodburn), find themselves embroiled in an intense battle between Nilfgaardian and Northern forces (comprised of both Lyria and Rivia soldiers.) As they sail down the river Yaruga, they’re ambushed by archers, and just as they’re about to be wiped out by a fire-fuelled weapon, a returning Milva (Meng'er Zhang) swoops in to save the day. Despite Geralt’s insistence to remain impartial amidst the unfolding war across the Continent, the company can’t stand by and watch the Nilfgaardian forces claim the crossing. So begins the fierce Battle for the Bridge on the Yaruga, as Geralt, Cahir and Zoltan fight alongside the Northern forces to help save Queen Meve. Meanwhile, Milva miscarries during this period, but is cared for by Regis and the rest of the company. Following the aftermath of the battle, Geralt is…

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What does Emhyr want with Ciri in The Witcher season 4? White Flame’s plan explained
type: item
date: 2025-10-30T16:00:16.000Z
creator: Nicola Austin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Netflix
description: The story is headed down a dark path... **CONTAINS SPOILERS FOR THE WITCHER SEASON 4**
encoded: *Warning: spoilers for The Witcher season 4 ahead.* As war rages across the ravaged Continent in The Witcher season 4, the driving force behind the ongoing assault is Nilfgaard’s iron-willed emperor, Emhyr var Emreis (Bart Edwards). The cold and calculating emperor is fuelled by his desire for dominion as he seeks to conquer the Northern Kingdoms, and is one of the biggest threats to Ciri (Freya Allan), Geralt (Liam Hemsworth) and Yennefer (Anya Chalotra). Everyone wants Ciri’s Elder Blood for their own means, whether that’s securing their fortunes or fulfilling their destiny-fuelled prophecies, and Emhyr is no different. But what exactly is Emhyr’s dark plan for his biological daughter, and what is he up to with spy master Stefan Skellen (James Purefoy) and the dark mage Vilgefortz (Mahesh Jadu)? Here’s everything you need to know about the ominous The Witcher villain, the White Flame. Who is Emhyr in The Witcher season 4? As revealed in the closing moments of season 2, the ruthless Nilfgaardian emperor is none other than Emhyr var Emreis, Ciri’s biological father who was long thought to be dead. Previously known as Duny (also known as the Urcheon of Erlenwald), Emhyr is the son of Fergus var Emreis, the former Emperor of Nilfgaard. After his father was overthrown by an usurper, Emhyr fled the kingdom – only to be cursed by a sorcerer to take on the form of a humanoid hedgehog. He then fell in love with the Princess of Cintra, Pavetta (Gaia Mondadori). He claimed her hand in marriage through the “Law of Surprise” at the banquet at Cintra back in season 1, and when the two kissed, his curse was lifted. Geralt saved Duny by helping convince Queen Calanthe (Jodhi May) to accept his proposal, and in return, he invoked the same custom for the "child of surprise", tying together their destinies – much to the later chagrin of Duny/Emhyr. Following Ciri’s birth, Vilgefortz visited Emhyr and told him of Ithlinne’s prophecy, convincing him that his child would inherit the El…

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The Witcher season 4 review: Liam Hemsworth's Geralt falls flat as Netflix flagship fantasy loses its magic
type: item
date: 2025-10-30T08:01:48.000Z
creator: Nicola Austin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Comment
subject: Netflix
subject: Review
description: Will Henry Cavill’s departure prove the final nail in the coffin for the "Witcherverse"?
encoded: Following the shock news that leading man – and self-confessed Witcher fan – Henry Cavill was hanging up Geralt’s swords and wolf medallion back in 2022, fans of Netflix’s flagship fantasy series were understandably left reeling. The Hunger Games star Liam Hemsworth was shortly announced as the new the White Wolf for the final two seasons. But with huge shoes to fill, as many considered Cavill’s portrayal of the beloved monster hunter definitive, the controversial announcement certainly left a dark cloud over the project. Casting concerns aside, there’s no denying that the writers have long played fast and loose with the source material in season 4, taking plenty of creative liberties with certain character arcs and events – much to the frustration of those who love Andrzej Sapkowski’s books and the CD Projekt games. While the third outing attempted to right the ship with a more faithful adaptation, season 4 faces even bigger challenges. Can Netflix win over returning viewers with the introduction of fan favourite characters such as Regis (Laurence Fishburne) and Leo Bonhart – or Cavill’s departure prove the final nail in the coffin for the "Witcherverse"? Picking up after the devastating (and Continent-altering) events of the Thanedd Coup, season 4 sees Geralt (Hemsworth), Yennefer (Anya Chalotra), and Ciri (Freya Allan) once again scattered across the war-ravaged Continent. The former lion cub of Cintra embraces her “Falka” persona among the rebel gang of outlaws known as the Rats, while Geralt embarks on yet another (!) rescue quest, forming a new found fellowship of misfits along the way. Meanwhile, Yennefer seeks to unite the remaining sorceresses for a final showdown with Vilgefortz (Mahesh Jadu), the mage who's secretly been pulling the strings all along. View Green Video on the source website Thankfully, the latest instalment isn’t split into multiple parts – as that month-long gap between volumes last season certainly hurt the pacing. Netflix has instead op…

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Who is Regis in The Witcher season 4? Laurence Fishburne character explained
type: item
date: 2025-10-30T07:00:51.000Z
creator: Nicola Austin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Netflix
subject: On demand
description: The series's first higher vampire has arrived!
encoded: Andrzej Sapkowski’s Witcherverse is packed full of fantasy staples, with the Continent’s many elves, dwarves, monsters and mages – and that only continues in season 4 of The Witcher. While the Netflix series has featured a multitude of the aforementioned monsters, season 4 will feature an exciting first; the introduction of the true higher vampires. Vampires have already debuted back in season 2 with the Bruxae. Geralt (previously played by Henry Cavill, with Liam Hemsworth now taking over) and Ciri (Freya Allan) encountered Vereena (Agnes Born) in A Grain of Truth, fans of the CD Projekt game will be aware that there are many species of both lesser and higher vampires. The fourth instalment will finally introduce true higher vampires in the shape of fan favourite character Regis, played by The Matrix and John Wick stalwart Laurence Fishburne. But can he be trusted? And what impact will he have on the battle for the fate of Ciri and the Continent? Who is Regis in The Witcher? Regis, aka Emiel Regis Rohellec Terzieff-Godefroy, is a centuries-old higher vampire who features in both the book series and the game as a loyal companion to Geralt and a key member of his travelling company on their quest to find Ciri. He debuts in the midpoint of the fifth novel Baptism of Fire and becomes a key character throughout the remainder of the series, appearing in The Tower of the Swallow and The Lady of the Lake. He is also a major character in the Blood and Wine expansion of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, and can also be seen in the beloved card game Gwent. Regis is a noble, wise and surprisingly empathetic higher vampire who is the barber surgeon of Dillingen and a healer. He bumps into Geralt and his companions in an old elven cemetery on their way to Nilfgaard. Despite being a higher vampire, Regis has sworn off drinking altogether, following a previous significant addiction which led to a particularly sticky ending with the local villagers! Speaking exclusively to RadioTimes.com, …

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Why was Vesemir recast in The Witcher season 4? Kim Bodnia exit explained
type: item
date: 2025-10-30T07:00:25.000Z
creator: Nicola Austin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Netflix
description: Geralt isn’t the only Witcher getting a make-over.
encoded: As fans of The Witcher brace themselves for a brand new leading man – The Hunger Games’ star Liam Hemsworth, stepping into the White Wolf’s shoes following Henry Cavill’s shock departure – Geralt isn’t the only Witcher getting a makeover of sorts. Killing Eve star Kim Bodnia previously played Vesemir, Geralt's endearing father figure and mentor, but won't be returning for season 4 of Netflix's flagship fantasy drama. The show is set to welcome a new Vesemir to the fold, alongside other new faces including Laurence Fishburne as Regis. Here's everything we know about Vesemir's recasting. Why was Vesemir recast in The Witcher season 4? Bodnia didn't return as the veteran monster hunter due to his commitments to Apple TV+ original film F1, the Joseph Kosinski-directed Formula 1 blockbuster. A spokesperson for Bodnia explained to RadioTimes.com: "Kim will not return as Vesemir as his current shooting diary didn’t fit in with Netflix’s shooting schedule of The Witcher season 4." Bodnia played Kaspar Smolinski in F1, the team principal and former engineer for the fictional Formula 1 racing team APXGP, which retired driver Sonny Hayes (played by star Brad Pitt) was racing for. The scheduling issue arose when filming on the F1 movie was paused due to the 2023's Writers Guild of America and Screen Actors Guild strikes, with the cast and production crew joining the industrial action. As filming took place during actual F1 Grand Prix weekends to capture footage of real races amongst the iconic tracks, the subsequent delay prevented Bodnia's return as the Kaer Morhen leader and veteran. Who is playing Vesemir in The Witcher season 4? With Bodnia out of the Netflix series due to scheduling conflicts, Scottish actor and Trainspotting star Peter Mullan was recently revealed to be stepping up as the grizzled monster slayer. Fantasy fans will best know Mullan as the fateful Dwarf King Durin III in Prime Video’s big budget Lord of the Rings adaptation, The Rings of Power (that epic Ba…

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Why did Henry Cavill leave The Witcher? Liam Hemsworth recast explained
type: item
date: 2025-10-30T06:00:20.000Z
creator: Nicola Austin
subject: Fantasy
subject: TV
subject: Netflix
description: Everything you need to know about one of the strangest TV recastings.
encoded: Shockwaves rippled through the fanbase of Netflix’s flagship fantasy series when it was announced that star – and self-confessed The Witcher fan – Henry Cavill was hanging up the titular monster hunter’s sword and medallion. Cavill took his final bow as Geralt of Rivia in The Witcher’s third season, which aired in the summer of 2023 – less than a year after his shock departure was announced. With seven seasons initially planned, Cavill announced that The Hunger Games star Liam Hemsworth was set to be taking on the mantle of the role. It was confirmed shortly after that would be for the final two instalments, the fourth and fifth seasons were then filmed back-to-back. However, the decision to recast has certainly been met with considerable scepticism from fans, particularly given Cavill’s well-documented passion for author Andrzej Sapkowski’s source material. Here’s what we know about Cavill’s departure, Hemsworth’s decision to take on the role and showrunner Lauren Schmidt-Hissrich’s thoughts on The Hunger Game star’s portrayal of the iconic White Wolf. Why did Henry Cavill leave The Witcher? There’s been no shortage of speculation online following Cavill’s announcement, including rumours of a conflict with the writers over departures from the source material. However, showrunner Lauren Schmidt-Hissrich has since clarified that Cavill had other roles he wanted to commit to, and she didn’t want to force him to finish the show. Shortly after his departure, Cavill posted a video on Instagram confirming his return as Superman, following a cameo in the post-credits scene of Black Adam. Unfortunately, the comeback was short-lived, as James Gunn later revealed that Cavill’s Superman was one of the casualties of the DCU reboot at DC Studios. He has since confirmed leading roles in the Highlander reboot and the Warhammer 40k TV series. Speaking exclusively to RadioTimes.com about the recast, Schmidt-Hissrich said: "I think it's been really interesting to talk to people about…

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