Henry Cavill Says This Show Is Better Than The Witcher—And Fans Are Losing Their Minds
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Henry Cavill is best known as Geralt of Rivia, the stoic monster hunter in Netflix’s hit series The Witcher. But even the White Wolf himself has found a new fantasy obsession—one he says outshines his own show. In a candid interview with BBC Radio 1, Cavill confessed that Arcane, Netflix’s animated adaptation set in the League of Legends universe, left him utterly hooked. “I couldn’t stop watching,” Cavill admitted, echoing a sentiment shared by fantasy fans worldwide.
From Geralt to Piltover: Cavill’s Animated Obsession
Cavill’s journey into the world of Arcane began with a recommendation from BBC’s Ali Plumb. With his wife by his side, Cavill pressed play—and like countless others, he found himself unable to look away. For Cavill, an avid gamer and fantasy aficionado, Arcane was a natural fit. Yet, the show’s appeal reaches far beyond gamers: since its 2021 debut, Arcane has dazzled both League of Legends devotees and newcomers alike, earning rave reviews and a rapidly expanding fanbase.
Why Arcane Triumphs Where Others Falter
Arcane’s brilliance lies in its fusion of fantasy and science fiction, its compelling narrative, and a cast of characters whose evolution keeps viewers on edge. The series, developed by Christian Linke and Alex Yee, is no mere video game tie-in—it’s a visual and emotional masterpiece that has raised the bar for all animated storytelling. Over just two seasons (each with nine tightly paced episodes), Arcane delivers a saga of political intrigue, personal vendettas, and heart-wrenching relationships. Its animation dazzles; its writing is sharp, mature, and never falls into the trap of over-explanation, instead trusting the audience to immerse themselves in the world of Piltover and Zaun.
Critics have taken note: Arcane boasts an avalanche of awards, consistent critical acclaim, and near-universal fan praise. Even renowned fantasy author Brandon Sanderson has sung the show’s praises, calling it one of the best examples of the genre on television.
Arcane vs. The Witcher: What Sets It Apart?
While The Witcher is lauded for its expansive world-building, dark mythology, and complex characters, Arcane manages to perfect a delicate balance. The stakes climb with every episode, character arcs feel organic, and the storytelling remains consistent—avoiding the pitfalls that plague many live-action fantasy series as they grow in scale. Unlike adaptations that struggle to sustain momentum, Arcane only gets better, making it ideal for binge-watching.
Perhaps most notably, Arcane accomplishes what many live-action adaptations cannot: it creates a world as rich and emotionally resonant as anything on the screen, animated or otherwise. The show doesn’t waste time on heavy-handed exposition, instead allowing its visuals and performances to carry the story, much like the best seasons of Game of Thrones.
A New Gold Standard for Fantasy TV
With spinoffs in development and fan anticipation at a fever pitch, Arcane is cementing its place as Netflix’s crown jewel in fantasy programming. For Cavill, and countless viewers, it’s proof that animation can deliver epic fantasy at a level that rivals—and perhaps surpasses—even the best live-action efforts.
As Cavill himself discovered, once you enter the world of Arcane, it’s nearly impossible to leave. For fantasy fans searching for their next obsession, the hunt may just be over.